Dudley Riggs (1932–2020)

This is a nice little memoir by a man who was literally born into the circus, and made it his life. His parents were circus folk, and from the earliest possible age, he joined their troupe. This is the story of his journey through the circus and onto other venues.

It is well-written, with lots of vignettes that combine nostalgia for an age gone by with humor and awe at the life he led. The stories feature detailed and illustrative incidents written about in a vivid and engaging manner. Riggs' writing style is superb. He combines memories of his life in the big top with lessons he's learned over the years, in a variety of settings, including overseas in Japan (and nearly causing an international incident with a Japanese royal!), to starting his own comedy improvisation school/club called "Brave New Workshop."

It's also a very interesting look behind the scenes of the circus world. Spectators see only the sequins and the sparkle; Riggs takes us backstage, into the heart of circus life.

Thank you to the author and publishers for a review copy.… (més)