Variety Show vs. Musical vs. Circus: What Are the Differences?

A show is not just a show. If you are planning a special evening, you often face the question: Should it be a musical? Variety? Circus? Or something entirely new? We explain the differences — and introduce a genre that combines the best elements of all three.

Variety: The art of revue

Variety has a long tradition dating back to the 19th century. The principle: different artists present their acts one after another — acrobatics, juggling, comedy, magic, singing. Each act stands on its own. The audience enjoys the variety and virtuosity of the individual performances. In Germany, variety has established itself as a distinct form of entertainment, with permanent venues such as the GOP theaters.

Musical: Story through song

The musical tells a story — through dialogue, song, and dance. Everything serves the plot: the songs, the choreography, the set design. The performers play roles, and the audience follows a storyline. Musicals are elaborate productions, often with a large cast and orchestral accompaniment. The focus is on narrative and musical quality.

Circus: Sensation and wonder

Circus — whether classic under the big top or modern in the theater — relies on physical sensation. Trapeze, rope, juggling, clowning: at the center is athletic performance, the wonder of the impossible. Modern circus formats such as Nouveau Cirque combine this tradition with artistic elements and narrative arcs.

And what is an Artistical, then?

The Artistical is the newest genre in the live entertainment family — and it combines what the other formats each offer individually. Like variety, it puts world-class performers in the spotlight. Like a musical, it has a continuous dramatic arc. Like circus, it captivates with top physical performances. Add to that live music, immersive lighting design, and a space that is itself part of the art.

The crucial difference: in an Artistical, all elements merge into one overall experience. There are no separate acts and no spoken dialogue. The story is told through body, sound, and atmosphere.

GROOVE: Experience the Artistical live

The show GROOVE at the new GOP Artistical Theater Essen is the first production to bring this genre to the stage. Starting in September 2026 on Rottstrasse in downtown Essen. International artists, a tribute to disco in the 70s, live vocals by Della Miles, and a completely newly built theater with Europe’s first stage bar. Tickets from €49.

What is an Artistical? Learn more | To the show