Beneath the Big Top: A Social History of the Circus in Britain

I never meant to buy this book

Exhaustively researched yet so very accessible. Steve Ward gives the reader a ringside seat in the greatest show of all. He is the ringmaster precisely directing our attention so we can see, know and feel how circus came down through the ages and remains a vital part of our culture.(Kevin O'Keefe Director of Circus MinimusSteve Ward's `Beneath the Big Top' is a wonderful history of the circus world from the British viewpoint. For me, the best things a book can do are inform you, involve you and engage you. Steve has found a way to do all of these things in a book that is both full of interesting information and a great read. I didn't want to put it down. Thanks Steve!(Chuck Johnson President of the American Youth Circus Organisation)Steve Ward's new book `Beneath the Big Top; A Social History of the Circus in Britain' conveys the author's passion for circus and the detailed research he has undertaken. The quality of the writing, and the intriguing individuals involved in circus, results in a book that is a pleasure to read as well as an excellent source of information. A variety of excellent illustrations adds to the book's appeal.(Charlie Holland Author of Strange Feats & Clever Turns)Beneath the Big Top is a thorough review of the history of the Circus brought to life with contemporary anecdotes and illustrations. An entertaining and informative book.(Jim Riley Founder of Skylight Circus Arts) .....beautifully illustrated and superbly researched.... (Roger Lewis for the Daily Mail 2.1.2015)A welcome addition to the literature available on the subject. It also stands out for putting the circus performances in a wider social context.....(Tim Roberts National Centre for Circus Arts)

As a former circus performer and now teacher and circus professional, I thoroughly enjoyed this book !! The Circus has such a rich history and Steve does an amazing job at not only chronicling it, but also telling entertaining and wonderful stories throughout. The photos are also amazing !! I recommend this book for both circus professionals and also for everyone else..it is a fabulous read for all !!Carrie Heller, Circus Arts Institute. Atlanta, Ga.

I originally picked up this book to add to some family history research, but I couldn't put it down! An entertaining and beautifully detailed look at the evolution of the circus and its performers told with great affection and warmth. I found myself longing to be able to time travel and see some of the shows first hand! It's given me a real appreciation of circus and its long history of entertaining. Next time a circus is in town, I'll be getting a ticket.

3. Beneath the Big Top: A Social History of the Circus in Britain by Steve WardThis compact history is crammed with interviews, eye-witness accounts and facts so outlandish that even the most imaginative novelist couldn’t top them. Ward offers nuggets about Henry Kraul, the showman whose head was torn off by his pet lion; about George Wombwell’s escaped tigress who killed a young boy, a woman and a baby; and about the numerous conflagrations that have reduced tents and amphitheatres and circus rings to ash.From; The Guardian 30 June 2021The Top 10 books about circuses and spectacleBy Elizabeth Macneal

A thoroughly enjoyable read -- the author deserves top marks for this scholarly and extensively researched work plus his uncanny ability to transport you ringside.No doubt readers will buy Steve Ward's book for different reasons, perhaps to learn about circus history or maybe warm nostalgia..None I feel will be diappointed

A great social history of the great institution the Circus. A really good read that charts the social history of the circus from its beginnings to its peak fade away and subsequent rise again.

Excellent historical information