A big top performer is someone who performs in a circus tent, or 'big top'. An ACROBAT is a person who performs gymnastic feats such as tumbling and balancing. A tamer is someone who works with animals, usually training them to perform tricks. A circus clown is a performer who entertains the audience with physical comedy and slapstick humor. A tightrope walker is a performer who walks on a thin wire suspended high above the ground. All of these performers are essential to a successful circus show.