The Why Factor

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BBC Radio 4 LW

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Factual: Arts, Culture & the Media

Series that explores the hidden histories behind everyday objects and actions.

Series that searches for the extraordinary and hidden histories behind everyday objects and actions.

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The Why Factor: Series 3: The Circus

The Circus

Series 3

BBC Radio 4 - The Why Factor, Series 3, The Circus

Why does the circus endure?  Mike Williams explores its lasting appeal.

In a world of screens, streaming video and TV-on-demand, why does the circus continue to endure?   Mike Williams explores its lasting appeal.  

From clowns to tight-rope walkers, fire-eaters to elephant trainers, the modern circus has been around for centuries. But why does it still appeal in the modern age?  Mike Williams explores the origins of the circus and asks why, in a world of screens, video streaming and TV-on-demand, the circus continues to delight adults and children around the globe.  Mike visits the Moscow State Circus, hears from a clown with Cirque Du Soleil and talks to a lion trainer with the biggest animal act in the world.   There's thrills, spills, fun and fear.  

Presenter: Mike Williams
Producer: Sally Abrahams
Editor: Andrew Smith

First broadcast on the BBC World Service 

The Why Factor: Series 3

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Mike Williams explores the hidden histories behind everyday objects and actions

Mike Williams searches for the extraordinary and hidden histories behind everyday objects and actions

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The Why Factor

Series 3

The Circus

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