Happy Birthday to Andrew Van Buren and celebrating the history of the British circus!

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Today on the Gandeys World Class Productions blog, we're taking the opportunity to celebrate birthday of Andrew Van Buren; performer, showman and member of circus history. To mark this special occasion, we're giving you a further insight into the colourful and remarkable history of British circus!

How British circus began

English equestrian Philip Astley created performances and tricks surrounding horses based in a 42-foot diameter ring, now the universally known circus ring. Originally from Newcastle-Under-Lyme, his hometown now pays tribute to the circus creator in the form of The Phillip Astley Project which has educated the public through talks, workshops and exhibitions, on his life and work. Now, you can find bespoke circus-themed sculptures in honour of Philip Astley in his birth town.


Gandey's circus director, Carol Gandey, with some of the cast

Fred Van Buren

Known as an illusion and magician, Fred Van Buren toured with his wife Connie Greta as the act 'Van Buren and Greta'.  Some of his greatest magic inventions include the Vanishing Motorbike and Rider, which was performed along with son Andrew. Fred Van Buren had in fact worked on Gandeys Circus with Bob Gandey, founder of Gandeys Circus and grandfather to director Phillip Gandey.  

Jossers in the circus 

Previously, people who were tired of their every day lives have taken the leap and ran away to join the circus, otherwise known as josser. Erik Weisz had in fact took a job at the circus in order to support his family financially and eventually became know as the infamous Harry Houdini.

What would a circus be without clowns? 

The role of a clown is so widely respected that every year in London, there is a clown church service to remember Joseph Grimaldi, known as the father of modern clowning! In fact, every year 'Interational Clown Week' is celebrated in the first week in August to celebrate the profession and clowns everywhere (good and bad). Keep an eye out on our blog and social media pages for some rather clowny content. 




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