Anyone who grew-up in Mexico is familiarized with the Atayde Hermanos Circus which is the most famous circus in that country. It is no secret that circuses are a favorite subject of Mary Ellen Mark. During the latest workshop in Oaxaca, last February,  we talked to one of the owners and gained access to the backstage of the circus allowing some of the students to create and document how the performers live and the activities going on on a daily basis to support the creation of every show.

Following are some of the images I was able to capture during my brief visit…. I have to admit it was interesting to see this having been a spectator all my life…