Have you ever heard the term "three-ring circus"? The circus ring was first introduced in England by Philip Astley, a trick rider who loved horses. He learned that he could best perform his tricks on horseback when the horses were running in a circle. The speed of the horse combined with gravity kept him firmly balanced.
He also realized it was better for both the performer and the audience if the rider worked in a circle. The rider could move from trick to trick without interruption, and the people could see everything that was going on. A larger audience could attend if people sat all around the performance arena.
Astley is also credited with introducing the idea of the big top. He realized that people would be more willing to attend his productions if they were protected from the cold weather. As circuses traveled to larger towns with larger audiences, the circus owners added extra rings with bigger tents.
Though today the ringmaster is the master of ceremonies who keeps the show flowing, originally his job was to keep the horses running correctly around the ring as the rider worked his tricks. This is the reason for his traditional riding costume of red vest, top hat and whip.
You and your family can celebrate the circus at the Very Special Arts Festival, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. Enjoy live performances on two stages, hands-on art workshops, clowns, puppets and much more. This free outdoor event takes place at the Music Center Plaza on Grand Avenue between 1st and Temple streets in downtown Los Angeles. For further information, go to www.musiccenter.org or call (213) 972-3305.
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This Learning Link was provided by the Music Center Education Division, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown Los Angeles.
