Subject
Circus Books
Best books
John J. (John Joseph) Jennings
Theatrical and Circus Life or, Secrets of the Stage, Green-Room and Sawdust Arena
"Theatrical and Circus Life" by John J. Jennings is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the intricacies of theatrical and circus performance, detailing its history from Shakespeare's era to Jennings' contemporary time. It delves into the secrets of the stage, the lives of performers, and the magic that captivates audiences, blending anecdotal stories with a thorough examination of the entertainment industry. At the start of the work, Jennings sets the stage by discussing the dual allure and mystique surrounding theatrical and circus venues. He provides vivid descriptions of the hidden world behind the scenes that the general public rarely sees, highlighting the stark contrast between the glamorous facade of performances and the often chaotic reality of backstage life. He humorously captures the awe and confusion that a newcomer might experience when stepping behind the curtains, urging readers to appreciate the mechanical skill and artistry that create the enchanting experiences of the stage and circus.
Gilbert Seldes
The Seven Lively Arts
"The Seven Lively Arts" by Gilbert Seldes is a critical examination of various forms of American entertainment written in the early 20th century. The text explores how these lively arts, including vaudeville and film, were often dismissed by the cultural elite, yet they uniquely captured and reflected the spirit of their time. Through an affectionate lens, Seldes argues for their significance and artistic value, featuring noteworthy figures such as Charlie Chaplin. The opening of the book sets the tone for Seldes' exploration by addressing slapstick comedy and its place in American culture. He reflects on the origins and evolution of the Keystone comedies, emphasizing their distinctive charm and vitality despite critical neglect. Seldes acknowledges the influence of great comedic artists, particularly Mack Sennett and Chaplin, while critiquing the broader societal perceptions of comedy as a vulgar or unrefined art form. Through an insightful narrative, he positions slapstick and its creators within the larger artistic landscape of American culture, advocating for a deeper appreciation of the genre.
William Carter Thompson
On the Road With a Circus
"On the Road With a Circus" by William Carter Thompson is a narrative account of the life and operations within an American circus, written in the early 20th century. The book offers an in-depth exploration of the intricate details that bring a circus to life, including the behind-the-scenes activities, the people involved, and the challenges faced throughout the circus season. Through this lens, it highlights not only the spectacle of the performances but also the camaraderie and struggles of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes. The beginning of the book reveals the author's intention to take readers on a journey through the daily existence of circus life, from the energetic preparations before performances to the challenges encountered while traveling from town to town. Thompson discusses the preparation required for a circus day, the significant roles played by various individuals from performers to managers, and the fascinating elements that often go unnoticed by the audience. He draws attention to the extraordinary organization required to transport animals and equipment, the teamwork involved in setting up and tearing down the tents, and the fabric of relationships and codes that define this unique world. This opening establishes a vivid and informative tone, inviting readers to appreciate the complexities of circus life.
Courtney Ryley Cooper
Lions 'n' tigers 'n' everything
"Lions 'n' Tigers 'n' Everything" by Courtney Ryley Cooper is a nonfiction work written in the early 20th century. This book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of circuses, particularly focusing on the care, training, and life of the animals involved. It explores the relationships between trainers and the animals as well as the often misunderstood practices that contribute to the circus experience that audiences enjoy. The opening of the work serves as an introduction to the author's experiences and insights, particularly highlighting the animal training processes in modern circuses compared to past practices. The author shares his first encounter in the training den, revealing that the animals are treated with respect and care, rather than through fear and brutality as he initially believed. Emphasizing a shift toward humane training methods, he discusses how contemporary trainers foster companionship and reward-based learning, which ultimately shapes the relationship between humans and animals within the circus context.
W. C. (William Cameron) Coup
Sawdust & Spangles: Stories & Secrets of the Circus
"Sawdust & Spangles: Stories & Secrets of the Circus" by W. C. Coup is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author’s experiences as a prominent showman in the circus world, reflecting on the vibrant yet challenging nature of circus life during its heyday. Coup shares stories of his adventures, the fascinating personalities he encountered, and the animals he worked with, providing readers with insights into the inner workings of the circus. The opening of the narrative introduces Coup's boyhood experiences that led him to join the circus at a young age, when he was enchanted by the thrill and travel associated with this extraordinary vocation. He recounts humorous and thrilling anecdotes, such as a close encounter with an elephant and the rough and tumble of circus life. The descriptions of the characters around him, including fellow showmen and the lively audience, paint a vivid picture of the social and cultural dynamics of the era. Keen on sharing the realities of circus life, Coup’s recollections blend humor, excitement, and occasional peril, drawing readers into the unique world of early American circuses.
Anonymous
Myers' Grand Hippodrome
"Myers' Grand Hippodrome" by Anonymous is a historical account written in the late 19th century that explores the grandeur and intricacies of a lavish equestrian and animal performance venue. The book focuses primarily on Mr. J. W. Myers and his ambitious hippodrome establishment, which showcases a wide variety of spectacular acts featuring trained animals, acrobats, and equestrians, emphasizing the popularity of such entertainment during its time. The narrative delves into the various aspects of Mr. Myers' Grand Hippodrome, detailing not only the elaborate performances, which include chariot races, lion taming by John Cooper, and the equestrian pantomime "Little Red Riding Hood," but also behind-the-scenes insights into the care and training of the vast array of animals that comprise the show. Audiences are treated to descriptions of the breathtaking scenes set in the Crystal Palace, where the show takes place. The text highlights the skilled performers and their unique talents, as well as the tremendous logistical efforts required to transport and maintain such a large and diverse troupe of animals and artists, capturing the essence of a bygone era of entertainment.
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