The May session of Circus History Live! will explore how circus clowning has changed from the 19th century to the 21st century, and reasons for the changes.

Join us to hear author David Carlyon discuss 19th-century clowns as democratic contrarians, which he explored in his book, Dan Rice: The Most Famous Man You've Never Heard Of.

The 20th-century Clown College graduates struggled to do the work while dealing with clichés (sad clown, “scary clown,” trickster). Dave wrote about that experience with Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, in The Education of a Circus Clown: Mentors, Audiences, Mistakes (Thayer Prize).

Now, the 21st-century clown lurches in a confused landscape of spectacles, small troupes, and side hustles.

Dave fought wildfires in the West, was a military policeman, and a New York actor.  He is also a member of the Circus Historical Society Board of Trustees

Chris Berry, who is a CHS Trustee and circus historian, will host the discussion and take your questions.

Registration required.  To participate in the program, click https://bit.ly/3tnvrG3 at 7:00 PM Eastern on Saturday May 15th and follow the online instructions.

All Circus History Live! sessions are free and open to both CHS members and the public.  However, donations in support of the work of the non-profit Circus Historical Society will be accepted at Donate, and non-members are encouraged to Join.  Membership includes access to our online Bookstore, where you can purchase used circus books, programs, and other items, and to our members-only online Q & A forum, the Jackpot Junction!

For technical support, please contact chstreasurer@gmail.com.