Saturday, April 03, 2010

Venice Arena 1973 #1


Scan12748, originally uploaded by bucklesw1.

I read with interest the article about the temporary reprieve
for the Venice Arena
These pictures are from our first appearance in the grand old
edifice. I had arrived in October from Mexico City and Barbara,
Ben and "Anna May" showed up in December at the conclusion
of the Mexico tour.
I was supposed to have the 18 elephants out of there by
Thanksgiving but due to delays we lingered there into February
of 1774 but in so doing got to witness the arrival and departure
of both shows and the nuts and bolts of how they were put
together.
One day I was told that they needed some publicity pictures
and these were taken some time around the Clown College
Graduation. None of them were ever used and it was just as well
since the young elephants worked poorly being in a new venue
and I was a bit edgy since this was my first time to meet Irvin Feld.



Posted by Buckles at 4/03/2010 06:29:00 AM

3 comments:

GaryHill said...

Capt, I know it seemed like forever but I think it was more like 1974. :)

03 April, 2010 17:20
Buckles said...

Feb. of '74 was when the park opened.
The previous three months was when we had the elephants chained up behind the elephant barn in the trees.
Gunther and Henry put up an old horse tent for the small elephants.

03 April, 2010 17:36
Anonymous said...

These pictures are amazing when you think that Ben was 23 and Barbara was in her 40's.

Combined they may have been the best duo in the circus business. The act was electric due to their artistry and skill. And let us not forget the incredible Anna May !

bill powell

03 April, 2010 21:58

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