The five Ws - Rachel Belle Barum

Rachel Belle Barum was born into a circus family and chose a career as circus artist. (C) Barbara Huwiler

Why did you become a circus artist?

I was born into a circus family. My father was a high-wire and master performer, Pierre Bauer, whose mother comes from the Nock circus dynasty. My mother, Rebecca Siemoneit-Barum, is an actress and was the junior director of my grandfather's circus, Circus Barum. Growing up in the circus and traveling with my parents, it was the most normal thing in the world for me not to be normal, but to choose a career in show business.

What has been the greatest challenge in your life as an artist?

Above all, self-doubt has been a constant companion in my life as an artist. How ironic, considering how confident you feel as soon as you step onto the stage and the music starts playing.

What is your favorite circus show and why?

The Monte Carlo Circus Festival is a show whose presentation deeply touches me every time. Circus is celebrated in all its nostalgia and beauty. When the orchestra starts playing the march and the artists proudly enter the ring, I always shed a tear or two.

Aerial acrobatics is Rachel's passion, even with unusual props. (C) Stefan Gierisch

Where do you see yourself in the future?

For the past year and a half, I've only been performing occasionally because I've decided to take my career in a different direction. I'm completing vocational training as a social worker and would like to pursue further studies afterward. Working with children fills my heart on a deep level. Nevertheless, I still have circus blood; I love shows and performing. My next engagement is in the Christmas variety show at the Capitol Theater in Nordhorn. In the future, I can well imagine following in my mother's footsteps and, for example, acting as a presenter and singer in shows around Christmas time.

Who should we interview next in this series?

I would like to recommend my good friend Lili Konyot. She is a fantastic singer, an absolute powerhouse, and an artist through and through.