Flying Concellos

Flying Concellos. The Flying Concellos were a legendary aerialist troupe, renowned as one of the most celebrated and technically proficient flying trapeze acts in the history of the American circus. Primarily associated with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, the act was defined by the extraordinary partnership and innovation of its leaders, Art Concello and Antoinette Concello. Their performances set new standards for daring and precision, influencing generations of aerial performers and solidifying their place in circus lore.

History and Origins

The act's origins are deeply rooted in the circus family tradition, with Art Concello beginning his career as a tumbler and acrobat before mastering the flying trapeze. The formation of the Flying Concellos as a premier act coalesced in the late 1920s and early 1930s, a golden age for the big top under the auspices of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. A pivotal moment came with Art's marriage to Antoinette Comeau, a gifted performer from Canada who became the act's star flyer. Their development was influenced by earlier greats like Lillian Leitzel and the competitive atmosphere of major shows like the Clyde Beatty Circus. The act's name became synonymous with the Ringling Brothers organization, where they performed for decades, often as the headline attraction.

Notable Performances and Tours

The Flying Concellos were a cornerstone of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus for over three decades, performing in iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden in New York City and under the canvas of the traveling big top across North America. Their act was a must-see feature of the celebrated "The Greatest Show on Earth" spectacle, both the live production and the Cecil B. DeMille film that shared its name. They toured extensively with the Blue Unit of the Ringling Brothers circus, captivating audiences from Los Angeles to Chicago. Their consistent performances at major engagements, including lengthy stands in Boston and Philadelphia, cemented their reputation as reliable and breathtaking stars of the highest caliber.

Signature Acts and Techniques

The act was famed for its exceptional difficulty and flawless execution. Antoinette Concello achieved legendary status by becoming one of the very few women to successfully perform the perilous triple somersault from the flying trapeze, a feat that placed her in the pantheon of greats like Alfredo Codona. The Concellos perfected a fast-paced, dynamic style that incorporated complex sequences of passing leaps, pirouettes, and layouts. Art Concello, often acting as the catcher on the trapeze bar, was renowned for his strength and impeccable timing. Their rigging and safety innovations, though less visible to the public, were studied by other acts, and their disciplined approach to training set a new professional standard within the circus ring.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy of the Flying Concellos is profound within the world of circus arts. Antoinette Concello is immortalized as "The First Lady of the Flying Trapeze," and her mastery inspired countless female aerialists in troupes like the Flying Gaonas and later productions such as Cirque du Soleil. Art Concello's influence extended beyond performance; he later became the general manager of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, applying his showmanship to the entire operation. The act's technical contributions and high-art approach helped elevate the perception of aerial acrobatics from mere spectacle to a respected athletic and artistic discipline, paving the way for contemporary companies like the Pickle Family Circus and the modern renaissance of circus.

Members and Family

The core of the act was the husband-and-wife team of Art Concello and Antoinette Concello. Art, born Arthur, was the act's founder, catcher, and business manager. Antoinette, originally from Saint John, New Brunswick, was the star flyer and one of the most famous aerialists of her era. The act often included other family members and hand-picked performers, functioning as a small troupe. While they did not have children who performed in the act, their professional "family" included a lineage of catchers and flyers they trained. Their partnership, both in life and in the air, remains one of the most storied in the history of the American circus. Category:Circus acts Category:Aerialists Category:American entertainers