Jan Damm is a circus performer who portrays the character Nick Nack in the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus show. In addition to being a comedic presence, Damm is a skilled juggler and performer of a balancing act called rola bola. He is also accompanied on stage by a robotic dog named Bailey, adding a unique element to his performances. Damm’s journey in the circus world began at a young age when he started learning to juggle and entertain at birthday parties and kids’ events. After college, he traveled the world performing on the streets and learning various circus skills before being enlisted for the Ringling Bros. show.
One of the main acts Damm performs in the show is the rola bola, where he balances on a board atop a cylinder and gradually elevates himself on wobbly objects. Over the years, he has honed this act by building it up gradually from practicing in a gym to performing on stage in front of thousands of people. Damm’s act involves not just physical skills but also the ability to engage with the audience, showcasing humor and character while performing acrobatic feats. The culmination of his act involves a handstand at about 15 feet off the ground, demonstrating his mastery of the balancing act.
In addition to his solo performances, Damm interacts with a unique cast member, a robotic dog named Bailey. Bailey adds a fantastical element to the show, engaging with Damm’s character in a dance battle and causing mischief on stage. Despite being a piece of technology, Bailey is treated as a character in the show, with Damm having to adapt to any technical malfunctions or mistakes that may occur during their performances. The introduction of Bailey as a non-human element in the show represents a reimagined version of the Ringling Bros. circus for modern audiences, appealing especially to children.
While on tour with the circus, Damm and his fellow cast members indulge in various activities off-stage, such as trying different cuisines, going bowling, watching movies, or relaxing by the hotel pool. When not traveling for the show, Damm cherishes the time he gets to spend at home with his children, where he becomes the “circus dad” to his 5- and 7-year-old kids. His children are proud of his work with the circus but also appreciate having him at home whenever possible, allowing Damm to balance his career with his role as a father. The experience of being part of the circus has enabled Damm to create a fulfilling life that combines his passion for performing with the joy of family time.
Overall, Jan Damm’s journey as a circus performer has been a testament to years of dedication and practice in mastering his craft. From learning to juggle at a young age to traveling the world to perform in various capacities, Damm has built a diverse skill set that shines in his performances with the Ringling Bros. show. His ability to entertain audiences with his comedic presence, juggling skills, and acrobatic feats, alongside interactions with his robotic co-star Bailey, showcases the versatility and creativity that define the world of circus entertainment. Through his work on stage and his commitment to his family off-stage, Damm embodies the spirit of a modern circus performer dedicated to bringing joy and wonder to audiences of all ages.
