Circus Royale History

DREAMS can become reality in the world of show business, and Damian Syred's tale tells a happy story of persistence, passion and perseverance.

Damian is the proud owner of the renowned Circus Royale, which he purchased two years ago from seventh generation circus owners and retired performers Frank and Manuela Gasser. This was a rare opportunity, as a circus is like an heirloom reserved for family members.

The circus is 38 years old, founded by the Swiss-born Gassers who hailed from a family bearing a rich circus tradition from as early as 1437 in Europe.

"I first attended the Circus Royale when I was 12, during a visit by the circus to Western Australia. And when the circus returned two years later, I was determined to be a part of it," said Mr Syred.

He approached the circus for a job during the school holidays and was hired to make and sell show bags.

"I loved the circus way of life and wanted to run away and join them. But Manuela made me finish school," said Mr Syred. "I often told Manuela that one day I would like to buy the Circus Royale. She said their children were first in line and it was highly unlikely that it would ever be sold."

"However, if it was, I would be the first they'd approach," he said.

Mr Syred approached Manuela again for a job after completing Year 12, but was told to try something else for a while.

"I did, working my way up through a bank before being offered a job as tour manager for a circus in New Zealand," said Mr Syred. "I took the position and it was during this time that Manuela contacted me to see if I still wanted to buy the circus. I accepted and here I am today. I stuck to my dream and it finally happened."

Experience the thrills of Circus Royale's ALL NEW SHOW, which includes jugglers, high-wire walkers, clowns, acrobats, animals and Australia's ONLY "Man in the bottle".

Circus Royale
ABN 87648527850,
P.O. Box 1448,
Geelong, Victoria
Australia 3220.
Ph: 0410 669 253