The Ricky Jay Collection Part III

[ASTLEY]. Astley’s, Westminster-Bridge. Lambeth: Romney, 1809. One-color broadside playbill advertising shows at the historic London circus venue. The bill states that the “grand and extensive display of horsemanship” would feature “Mr. Smith’s Flying Act,” equestrian clowns, a tight-rope dancer, and a harlequinade titled “Fairy Land.” 28 ½ x 9 ½”. Trimmed close at top and left edge with loss affecting text, creasing throughout, small tears, soiling and staining. SCARCE.Widely regarded as the father of the modern circus, Astley’s first shows were strictly demonstrations of equestrian feats. His first performance was on April 4, 1768, but only two years later he incorporated other acts such as jugglers, clowns, and acrobats to fill time between the horseback riding spectacles, thus creating the format of the modern circus.