Philip Astley And The Horsemen Who Invented The Circus

Come one, come all! Step right up and discover the captivating story of Philip Astley and the daring horsemen who revolutionized the world of entertainment. From humble beginnings to the creation of the modern circus, this article unveils the remarkable journey of these visionary artists and the awe-inspiring performances that continue to dazzle audiences around the globe.

The Early Days - A Man and His Horses

Our tale begins in 18th century England, with Philip Astley - a skilled equestrian known for his incredible horsemanship. Astley and his trusty steeds captivated audiences with their daring acrobatics and jumps. Recognizing the potential for a grand spectacle, Astley sought to expand his repertoire and showcase his talent on a much larger scale.

Philip Astley and the Horsemen who invented the Circus

by Humorama Gag Cartoons ([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	19610 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	335 pages

FREE

The Birth of the Modern Circus

In 1768, Astley opened a riding school on the banks of the River Thames in London. This establishment marked the birth of what would later become known as the modern circus. Astley's riding school featured a circular arena where he and his horsemen performed astounding feats of agility and skill, captivating audiences with their death-defying stunts. Little did they know that they were laying the foundation for an entirely new form of entertainment.

The Big Top - A Spectacle Takes Shape

As Astley's popularity grew, so did the demand for more elaborate spectacles. To accommodate larger audiences, Astley erected a roof over the circular arena, creating what came to be known as the "Big Top". This iconic structure has become synonymous with circuses worldwide, providing shelter and a sense of wonder to spectators as they witness jaw-dropping performances.

A Circus Beyond Horses

While horses remained a central attraction, Astley's circus soon expanded to include a diverse array of acts. Acrobats, tightrope walkers, clowns, and jugglers joined the equestrian displays, captivating audiences with their incredible skills. This blending of various performances and talents set the stage for the modern circus as a kaleidoscope of awe-inspiring acts.

Influencing the World

Astley's success did not go unnoticed, and his pioneering circus quickly spread beyond the borders of England. Astley's horsemen traveled across Europe, captivating audiences in major cities including Paris, Berlin, and Vienna. The concept of the circus as a grand spectacle began to take hold worldwide, forever transforming the entertainment industry.

The Legacy Lives On

Philip Astley's enduring legacy can still be witnessed today through the breathtaking circuses that grace our cities. From the traditional feats of horsemanship to the modern acrobatics and daredevil stunts, the circus remains an awe-inspiring testament to Astley's vision and the passion of those who followed in his footsteps. Each time the curtain rises, we pay homage to the horsemen who invented the circus.

Philip Astley and his horsemen's contribution to the world of entertainment is undeniably remarkable. By combining equestrian showmanship with other genres of performance, they created a spectacle that would captivate generations to come. The circus, with its history of astonishing feats, continues to inspire wonder and awe in people around the world. So join us under the Big Top and be prepared to be amazed!

Philip Astley and the Horsemen who invented the Circus

by Humorama Gag Cartoons ([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	19610 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	335 pages

FREE

In this fascinating and carefully researched book, Dominique Jando tells us when, why and how the former sergeant-major of a British Hussars regiment created the most universal form of entertainment, the Circus. It was not a chance occurrence: the place, the times and the social context, all led to this pivotal moment.
Philip Astley became England's greatest showman, but if he was indeed a visionary, he was not a lone experimentalist: immediately, other equestrians followed his example and participated in the development and expansion of the circus in Europe and the Americas. This is the story, too, of these extraordinary and colorful pioneers who were Astley's contemporaries, whether pupils, competitors or colleagues: Charles Hughes, John Bill Ricketts, Philip Lailson, Antonio Franconi and a few others-including Astley's own son, John Conway Astley.
Relying in large part on their contemporaries' testimony, Dominique Jando places these pioneers back in their historical and social context, as well as in the often-overlooked context of the nascent show business of the late eighteenth century-principally in Great Britain, but also in Europe and in America.