Name: Bobby Hartman

Age: 35

Self-definition: A performer, a teacher and a friend – always in a different order.

Where were you at 9:00 a.m. last Sunday morning?

Getting ready for the final two performances of Fern Street Circus.

What person has influenced you more than any other, and how?

Duncan Smith, a Boys and Girls Club volunteer as I was growing up. He taught me a lot of things. He made me realize that there are always people who deserve your talents and your time. Make sure to give this to them.

When do you feel unequal?

When I am reminded that people aren’t given what they deserve and are given secondary treatment because they are different.

Where were you last Wednesday at noon?

In the circus ring performing for 300 elementary school students.

When was the last time you felt proud?

In the past month, when I watched the kids in the circus get out in front of the crowd and do their best.

If there was a defining moment in your life, what was it?

When I ran away to join Make*A*Circus in San Francisco, while leaving my real job and stability behind me. That’s when I learned that “what ifs?” can be a terrible thing.

Where were you at 10:00 p.m. last Friday night?

Standing in the midst of the circus crowd signing programs and greeting the post-show crowd.

What is your most immediate goal?

I would like to create a seven-days-a-week circus program for kids who have nowhere else to go.

When do you feel total joy?

When I connect with an audience and I am able to use their energy and give it right back to them.