Mr. Showman

As 2014 comes to a close, I am posting a photo of a gentleman that I feel represents the talents, qualities and graciousness of today's American circus personalities. Ward Hall has been with and for the circus since he started his circus career at age fourteen. A multi talented individual, Ward is a most congenial, pleasant and well liked by all that have the privilege to know him. He is a true American showman.

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PERSONAL NOTE:

I want to thank all of the men and women of the circus industry for allowing me to enter their busy personal lives for a few minutes to take their photo. To a person, you have been most gracious, friendly and welcoming. You may like to know, that since this blog was started

last year, there have been over 25,000 visits to the site from around the world. As I have several hundred more photos to post, the blog will continue in 2015. To all those fine folks associated with the "traditional American circus", I wish you a wonderful, safe and prosperous new year!

Sincerely,

Don Curtis

Great Catch

Carson & Barnes Circus veteran, Marco Cavallini, does an illustrious job as the catcher for the famous "The Flying Cavallinis" trapeze act.

Right Person For The Right Job

Ringling Blue concessionaire Karina Jimenez is just the right person to work in the shows' Ringmaster zone. A five year veteran, she is outgoing, friendly and a pleasure to talk with.

Slinking Along

Native Bulgarian, Peter Avramov, is a former Cossack rider. He now has a unique and amazing center ring act where he dresses and performs as a human slinky.

All Around Circus Girl

A veteran Carson & Barnes performer, the lovely and talented July Coronel is an aerialist, elephant rider and showgirl. The show is currently wrapping up the 2015 season.

Tossing & Turning

8th generation circus performer, George Coronas, spins and tosses his partner, Ashton Miles, during their acclaimed Risley act.

Starting Young

Pretty four year old Violet Valla is the daughter of well known circus performers, Vlastek & Kim Sue Valla. She rides atop her father's shoulders during the family unicycle act.

Tossing Things Around

A native of Mexico, fast as lightning circus performer Thomas Agular is a world record holder juggler.

Beauty Aloft

Charming Ana Cavallini performs with skill and grace as a flyer with "The Flying Cavallinis" The act is a feature with the mighty Carson & Barnes Circus.

Extraordinary Canine Presenter

Circus performer David Rosaire , along with his wife Sandy, is known for his unique western themed dog act.

All Around Equestrienne

Circus lovely Liz Loyal is a seasoned performer.She and her daughter, Aurora, shine in the ring as part of her husband Timi's equestrian act.

Perilous Presenter

Colorful and talented circus performer Bruno Blaszak presents a fast paced and entertaining tiger act.

A Grand Lady

Normally this blog is reserved to show photos of circus personalities who have been active from the year 2000 to the present. This posting is an exception because it is dedicated to an exceptional lady, Helen Belleti Warburton. Helen started her circus career at age sixteen and became a top mounter with the Belleti high wire troupe; an act that toured with various circuses during the 1930's and 40's. 

Helen passed away on November 11, 2014 at age 100. She was a personal friend, a dedicated circus fan and one who's wit and charm will be missed by many.

A Long Way From Home

Seen performing on Kelly-Miller Circus during the 2014 season was Amina Bayartsaikhan. She and her partner, Zaya, presented a unique and beautiful hand balancing/contortion act on the show, Both young ladies are from Mongolia.

Ponderous Act

Circus elephant trainer Chip Arthur knows his animals well and how to present a perfect act.