Frederico Bombastico welcomes hesitant visitors with a warm handshake. As the director of the circus, he has been in the business for over 30 years. In this unique blend of traveling circus and social work, he has carved out a rare niche. Along with his wife Barbsine (48) and their two young children, Babo (11) and Bara (5), he travels across Germany, Europe, and even Africa. Along the way, they meet various groups of artists who don't typically live within the colorful circus world.

For about two weeks, the "Marienhaus" assisted living group in Rüdersdorf transforms into the "Marinellis" troupe of artists. A conference house near Hanover turns into a vibrant circus ring. And Kathrin, who usually folds brochures in a print shop, becomes the strongest woman in the world.

I first encountered this colorful family during the final show of a clown training workshop in Hanover. Uli (also seen in the photos) came on stage to receive her diploma when the Bombastico family took the stage, showering her with confetti. I was captivated and soon decided to follow them during this workshop.

I first encountered this colorful family during the final show of a clown training workshop in Hanover. Uli (also seen in the photos) came on stage to receive her diploma when the Bombastico family took the stage, showering her with confetti. I was captivated and soon decided to follow them during this workshop.