KCAA & Discover Circus

Performance Costume Policy

General Principles

At Discover Circus, costumes are an essential element of performance, blending safety, professionalism, and artistic expression. To maintain a high standard, costumes must:

        •        Prioritize Safety: Avoid materials or designs that could pose hazards during performance (e.g., loose fabric or sharp embellishments).

        •        Reflect Professionalism: Costumes should align with a family-friendly environment and uphold the integrity of circus arts.

        •        Promote Inclusivity: Designs must accommodate performers of all body types, gender identities, and cultural backgrounds.

        •        Ensure Freedom of Movement: Costumes must support unrestricted movement without discomfort or risk of wardrobe malfunction.

        •        Maintain Modesty: Costumes must provide appropriate coverage, avoiding excessive exposure, while aligning with the artistic intent of the performance.

Fabric and Design Guidelines

        •        Secure Fit: Costumes must fit snugly to the body to prevent shifting during movement and minimize the risk of accidents.

        •        Flexible Materials: Fabrics like spandex or lycra are recommended for ease of movement and comfort.

        •        No Zippers or Sharp Edges: Avoid zippers, buttons, or any sharp embellishments that could damage equipment, pose a safety risk, or cause injury.

        •        No Loose or Dangling Elements: Avoid fringe, tassels, or other loose elements that could become entangled with equipment or props.

What Constitutes Excessive Exposure?

To maintain professionalism and modesty, excessive exposure is defined as:

        •        Torso Coverage: Moderate midriff exposure is allowed. Tasteful crop tops are permitted as long as the waistline of the bottoms sits at or above the belly button. This applies to all genders, bodies and ages. All attendees must wear a top at all times, regardless of gender

        •        Necklines: Deep plunging necklines or low cut bodysuits are not allowed. This is considered any V cut that ends below the nipples or any scoop neck that goes below the pectoral arm pit crease. Chest coverage must be sufficient to ensure comfortable movement without risk of exposure.

        •        Hip Height for Bodysuits: The highest allowable cut for bodysuits is at or just below the hip bone. High-cut leg openings above the hip bone are prohibited.

        •        Buttocks Coverage: Costumes must fully cover the buttocks, even during movement. No “cheeky” cuts or thong-style designs are permitted.

        •        No Underwear Visibility: Undergarments must not be visible under costumes during any movement or position, including inversions and stretches.

Performers must test costumes during rehearsals to ensure they meet these standards throughout all movements.

4. Hair, Makeup, and Accessories

        •        Hair: Hair must be secured away from the face and equipment (e.g., braids, buns, ponytails). Hair accessories must not pose a safety risk.

        •        Makeup: Use sweat-resistant, non-toxic makeup when possible. Avoid excessive glitter or transferable products that may rub off on the apparatus.

        •        Jewelry: No jewelry (e.g., rings, necklaces, or dangling earrings) is allowed to prevent injury or interference with equipment.

        •        Grip Aids: Performers may use gloves, rosin, or similar products if required for safety, provided they do not compromise grip or cleanliness.

Compliance and Enforcement

Costumes will be reviewed during rehearsals to ensure compliance with these guidelines. Performers may be required to make adjustments if costumes are deemed unsafe, inappropriate, or likely to cause exposure during movement. Discover Circus staff will work with performers to resolve costume issues promptly. Performers who repeatedly fail to comply with the policy may not be allowed to perform until adjustments are made to meet the required standards.

Cultural and Artistic Adaptations

Discover Circus supports costumes that honor cultural or religious practices or enhance artistic expression, provided they meet safety and modesty standards. Examples include full-length bodysuits, head coverings, or costumes designed for specific cultural representations. These adaptations are encouraged and supported with collaborative adjustments to ensure they meet the performance’s safety and practical needs.

Final Compliance and Evaluation

Discover Circus is committed to ensuring costumes are safe, inclusive, and aligned with the performance’s artistic vision. All costumes must maintain full coverage, reflect professionalism, and prioritize safety throughout the performance process. By adhering to these guidelines, Discover Circus ensures a professional, family-friendly environment that celebrates creativity and artistry.

If additional guidance is required, performers should consult staff well in advance of the performance to avoid last-minute issues.