In the Shadow of the Big Top: The Life of Ringling's Unlikely Circus Savior

Art Concello, a trapeze artist who became the Ringling brothers' chief henchman, is the subject of "In the Shadows of the Big Top: The Life of Ringling's Unlikely Circus Savior." The book goes beyond the showmanship to reveal how the circus could thrill a crowd and make money, exposing the human toll extracted for doing so.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 10 May 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

In the captivating world of the circus, a remarkable tale unfolds, revealing the untold story of Art Concello, a man who defied expectations and rose to become one of the most influential figures in the history of the circus. Born into a family with no ties to the circus, Concello's journey was marked by a series of serendipitous events that placed him at the forefront of the circus industry.

As a young man, Concello's passion for flying trapeze ignited, and he quickly established himself as a skilled performer. His talent and dedication caught the attention of the Ringling brothers, who recognized his potential and offered him a position as their chief henchman.

However, Concello's ascent to prominence was far from smooth. He faced numerous challenges and setbacks along the way, including a near-fatal accident that nearly ended his career. But he refused to let adversity deter him, and instead, he used it as a catalyst for growth and improvement.

With his unwavering determination and business acumen, Concello transformed himself from a trapeze artist into a shrewd circus businessman. He became the manager of the Ringling brothers, overseeing their operations and expanding their reach to new heights.

As the manager, Concello played a pivotal role in shaping the circus industry as we know it today. He introduced innovative marketing strategies, such as the use of television and radio to promote circus performances, and he negotiated lucrative contracts with cities and venues across the United States.

But Concello's impact went beyond the circus ring. He was a visionary leader who recognized the potential of the circus to entertain and educate people of all ages. He worked tirelessly to promote the circus as a cultural institution, and he helped to establish programs that provided training and opportunities for young performers.

In addition to his professional achievements, Concello was also a dedicated family man. He married his wife, an orphan-turned-acrobat, who shared his passion for the circus and supported him in his endeavors. Together, they created a loving and nurturing environment for their children, who followed in their footsteps to become performers and circus owners themselves.

In the Shadows of the Big Top: The Life of Ringling's Unlikely Circus Savior is a thrilling behind-the-scenes biography that delves into the life and career of Art Concello. Written by Maureen Brunsdale, this book offers a comprehensive account of Concello's journey from a young flyer to a seasoned circus manager and ultimately to the owner of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey.

Through vivid storytelling and extensive research, Brunsdale paints a detailed portrait of Concello's life, highlighting his unwavering determination, business acumen, and commitment to the circus industry. The book goes beyond the glitz and glamour of the circus ring, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes operations and the human toll that was extracted for the sake of entertainment.

One of the most captivating aspects of Concello's story is his transformation from a trapeze artist to a shrewd circus businessman. Brunsdale explores the challenges and setbacks that Concello faced along the way, including his near-fatal accident and the financial struggles that the circus industry faced during the Great Depression.

Despite these challenges, Concello remained resilient and determined to succeed. He used his experience and expertise to navigate the complexities of the circus industry, and he emerged as a leader who shaped not only Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey but the circus industry as a whole.

In addition to his professional achievements, Concello was also a visionary leader who recognized the potential of the circus to entertain and educate people of all ages. He worked tirelessly to promote the circus as a cultural institution, and he helped to establish programs that provided training and opportunities for young performers.

Concello's legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of the circus today. His contributions to the industry have helped to ensure its survival and growth, and his commitment to the well-being of performers and circus workers has set a standard for excellence that is still upheld by circuses around the world.

In the Shadows of the Big Top: The Life of Ringling's Unlikely Circus Savior is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the history, culture, and magic of the circus. It offers a glimpse into the life of a remarkable man who defied expectations and left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 236 x 159 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538172100