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April 16, 2025

The Hidden Price That Circus Performers Pay

City Cast Las Vegas

The Hidden Price That Circus Performers Pay

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Ahead of World Circus Day this Saturday, we’re taking a look behind the curtain at the physical strain performers endure for their careers. Las Vegas is a major destination for acrobats, but our city lacks the protections and medical care needed to help manage the pain that accompanies their dazzling skills. UNLV professor and aerial performer Laura Martinez studies the culture of the circus industry and how they discuss pain. She joins co-host Dayvid Figler to explain this behind-the-scenes dynamic — and how Las Vegas commodifies performers’ bodies. 

If you enjoyed the interview with Eric Gladstone, a team leader at Vegas Unstripped, learn more here.

Learn more about the sponsors of this April 16th episode:

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