The one and only Albert White--my dear friend, on RBBB 1954. getting cast as the lead clown drag character for spec was a big deal back in the day, Sweet sweet man and oh so talented--a wonderful
mentor and fellow traveler,,,RIP.
From Buckles:
I remember seeing a clown number with a Western Theme on
the Ringling Show (Westward Whoa?) with cowboys and Indians wearing those hobby horses.
They had a fort set up in the center ring, I recall Otto Griebling
with a feather stuck in his derby qualifying him to be a member
of the attacking Indians.
The highlight tho was a full sized stage stage coach thundering
around the track and being stopped and held up by bandits with
Flo in full drag making an emotional exit from the coach. The
bustle on her gown was a cluster of carrots.
Years later Ernie Burch (who was the lead bandit) told us that
one day the teamster let the hitch get away resulting in the coach rolling over. You can imagine our laughter as he described the
vehicle on it's side, the wheels still spinning and everyone on top
prying open the door and lifting out a wigless Flo.
The story was topped off by Albert limping across the back yard
yelling, "Mister Valdo!", "Mister Valdo!" I shall henceforth make my
entrance on foot" |
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