Nikulin Moscow Circus

The Nikulin Moscow Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard is one of the main cultural attractions of the Russian capital, attracting millions of spectators from all over the world. This is a place where unforgettable performances have been created for over a century, circus stars are born, and the traditions of the great art are preserved.

History of the Creation and Development of the Circus

Founding of the Circus in the Late 19th Century

The history of the famous circus began in 1880, when the first permanent circus building in Moscow was erected on the order of the German artist Albert Salamonsky. Before that, only traveling tent circuses existed in Russian cities. The location for construction was chosen deliberately – on Tsvetnoy Boulevard there was a flower market where wandering artists regularly performed. Initially, the building was modest in size and included only five rows of seats for merchant audiences, a mezzanine, two boxes, and standing places in the gallery. There is a legend that the first ruble earned from ticket sales is still kept under glass in the circus ticket office.

Period of Nationalization and State Management

After Salamonsky's death in 1913, the circus went through difficult times. A new stage in its history began in 1919, when, on the initiative of V.I. Lenin, the circus was nationalized and turned into the country's first state circus. This decision marked the beginning of the planned development of circus art in the Soviet Union.

The Era of Yuri Nikulin

The true flourishing of the circus occurred during the period when, in 1983, it was headed by People's Artist of the USSR Yuri Nikulin. Under his leadership, a large-scale modernization was carried out: modern equipment was installed, animal enclosures were improved, and interiors were updated. In August 1985, the old building was completely demolished, and construction of a new circus began on its site. The grand opening of the renovated complex took place on September 29, 1989. In honor of Yuri Nikulin's 75th birthday, the circus was named after him – the Nikulin Moscow Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard. After the death of the legendary artist in August 1997, leadership was taken over by his son Maxim Nikulin, who continues to develop his father's traditions and introduce modern technologies into circus art.

Stars of the Circus Horizon

The circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard became a launching pad for many outstanding artists:

• Mikhail Rumyantsev (Karandash) – the legendary clown whose dog Klyaksa performed in the arena for 47 years, with 13 Scottish Terrier dogs succeeding one another during that time
• Yuri Nikulin – created one of the brightest clown images in the history of circus art
• Oleg Popov – the sunny clown who won the hearts of millions of spectators
• Igor Kio – an outstanding illusionist
• Anatoly and Vladimir Durov – famous animal trainers, continuers of the dynasty
• Mikhail Shuydin – Nikulin's partner in legendary performances

Interestingly, students of the great Charlie Chaplin even performed in the circus, and the clown school of this institution is considered the strongest in the world.

Amazing Facts from the Circus History

• During the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945, the circus continued to operate, creating special numbers with military themes to maintain fighting spirit
• Albert Salamonsky was the first in history to organize daytime performances specifically for children, as evening times were inconvenient for little ones
• The metro station “Tsvetnoy Bulvar” was built in 1988 at the personal request of Yuri Nikulin
• The famous comedy film short “Moonshiners” was first shown right in the circus arena, where it was performed by Nikulin and Shuydin
• Yuri Nikulin was rejected by all theater schools due to lack of acting ability according to the commissions, but he was accepted into the clown academy at the circus on the first try

Modern Performances and Programs

Variety of Circus Genres

Today, the circus offers spectators a rich program including many genres:

• Acrobatic acts under the dome
• Virtuoso juggling
• Equilibristic tricks
• Performances with trained animals – bears, tigers, panthers, Dalmatians riding horses
• Hilarious clown performances

Modern Show Programs

The circus successfully combines traditions with innovations. Modern programs are full-fledged theatrical shows using lighting and musical effects, as well as the latest circus technologies. For example, the program “Matryoshka” showcases the best achievements of circus art in a bright and colorful format. The auditorium, designed for 2000 people, is equipped with everything necessary for comfortable viewing of performances.

Architectural Splendor

The circus building deserves special attention due to its architectural and artistic design in the Art Nouveau style. Lavish decor with molded reliefs, stained glass windows, and painted panels creates a unique festive atmosphere. The spectator foyer has become a true gem with luxurious finishes. The circus houses the museum of the history of Russian circus art, where a unique collection of costumes, props, photographs, and other exhibits telling about the development of this type of creativity is presented.

Practical Information for Visitors

Location and Contacts

Address: Moscow, Tsvetnoy Boulevard, building 13 Phone: 8(495)625-89-70 Official website: circusnikulin.ru

Opening Hours

The circus ticket offices are open daily from 11:00 to 19:00, with a lunch break from 15:00 to 16:00. Performances are held regularly – the schedule can be checked on the official website.

Ticket Prices

• Admission ticket: from 1500 to 6000 rubles
• Children under 6 years: free without a separate seat

Tickets can be purchased online or at the circus ticket offices.

How to Get There

By metro: “Tsvetnoy Bulvar” station (exit from the first car from the center, then follow the signs) – only 130 meters to the circus. You can also exit at “Trubnaya” station and walk about 400 meters through a picturesque park with thematic sculptures. By bus: Routes No. 24, 38, T13 to the stop “Metro ‘Tsvetnoy Bulvar’”. By trolleybus: Route No. 13 to the stop “Metro ‘Tsvetnoy Bulvar’”. By car: Parking for personal vehicles is available near the circus.

The Nikulin Circus as a Cultural Phenomenon

The Nikulin Moscow Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard has long outgrown the status of a mere entertainment venue. It is an integral part of Russia's cultural heritage, a symbol of Moscow recognized throughout the world. The circus troupe regularly tours abroad, where the professionalism of the artists receives high praise from international audiences. For tourists visiting the capital with children, the circus has become one of the must-visit points on the itinerary alongside Red Square and the Tretyakov Gallery. Visiting this legendary place gives unforgettable emotions and impressions to guests of any age. At the entrance to the circus, there is a sculpture of Yuri Nikulin with the convertible from the famous film “Prisoner of the Caucasus” – a favorite spot for visitors' photos.

Traditions and Innovations

The circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard successfully combines loyalty to traditions with modern technologies. The interiors are constantly improved, technical equipment is modernized, and programs become increasingly theatrical and rich. Today, it is no longer just a set of individual acts and tricks – each performance turns into a complete artistic work, a true world-class show. As Yuri Nikulin himself said: “Hearing laughter is joy. Causing laughter is pride for me.” These words still remain the motto of the circus, which for more than 140 years has been bringing joy and fun to millions of spectators.