Actress Melat Nebiyu and Model Vick

Actress Melat Nebiyu and Model Vick on the Seifu show. "Sharing these experiences with my partner, Samuael has been the greatest reward,” Sintayhu added. Samuael began his circus journey at the age of 11. Now, after 13 years in the industry, he performs breathtaking acrobatic flips and spins on global stages. His introduction to the circus was influenced by peers, but he says it was his mother who truly inspired him to pursue the art. “My mother was instrumental in my decision to join the circus. The discipline and dedication it instilled in me helped me grow as a person and performer,” he explained. Samuael’s success has allowed him to financially support his family, a source of immense pride. “Coming from a family with limited means, my achievements have enabled me to provide for my siblings and give them access to better education.”

For the past 11 years, Samuael has performed alongside Sintayhu, their bond more like that of brothers than colleagues. “Our partnership has been a pillar of my growth as a performer,” he shared. Despite his early success, Samuael acknowledged that leaving his family at a young age was one of the hardest challenges he faced. Now, having reached his childhood dream of joining a world-class circus club, Samuael remains grounded. “At this point, I don’t have many other wishes,” he said, “but that could change with new opportunities.” With contracts renewed annually and 10 performances a week, both Sintayhu and Samuael know the physical demands of their profession, acknowledging the ever-present risk of injury. Yet, they say it is their dedication and hard work that has seen them through the challenges.

Looking ahead, the duo plans to give back to the circus community in Ethiopia. They hope to establish their circus clubs to nurture the next generation of performers and continue representing Ethiopia on the international stage. Tracing its roots to ancient Rome, the circus evolved from gladiatorial contests and traveling performers into a form of mass entertainment. The modern circus, however, took shape in 18th-century England, with horse acts, acrobatics, and clowns becoming part of the performances. Today, it’s an art form that transcends borders—and Sintayhu and Samuael are living proof that Ethiopian performers belong on the world’s biggest stages.