#circushistory

We publish the strange, the smart, and the spectacular—sideshow geeks, Coney Island legends, and circus misfits all under one tent.

New Date at Boswell Books!

The impending extreme cold weather has pushed back my talk at Boswell about my new book, The 388 Tattoos of Captain George.

New date is Friday, February 13th at 6:30pm.

"Natural Born! Circus, Sideshow and the Art of Being Human"@a new book from Outside Talker Press. ~ Book Launch Events...

Saturday, June 7th @4 pm ~ Coney Island USA (Brooklyn)

Sunday, June 8th @4 pm ~ American Mime Theater (Manhattan)

This non-fiction book explores the compelling lives and artistry of contemporary "natural born" sideshow performers—individuals born with disabilities who are central figures in modern sideshow. Through intimate interviews with about 20 artists, including Mat Fraser and Kim Kelly, Natural Born offers a 21st-century perspective on their experiences and motivations, showcasing how they have claimed and reinvented this art form in venues like Coney Island and Omnium Circus. This is a powerful and current narrative that challenges perceptions of disability and celebrates the diverse talents of these remarkable individuals.

With a Foreword by Lisa B. Lewis of Omnium Circus, an organization dedicated to diversity and inclusion in entertainment, Natural Born immediately underscores its commitment to honoring these artists and their stories. Lewis's involvement highlights the book's focus on living life on one's own terms, a significant theme for performers with disabilities. This collaboration emphasizes the book's aim to foster understanding and celebrate the achievements of these talented individuals. Prepare to be moved and inspired by Natural Born as it redefines circus, sideshow, and the art of being human.

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🎪 STEP RIGHT UP, FOLKS! 🎪

⚡️ BEHOLD THE ABSOLUTELY EXTRAORDINARY, MIND-BENDING, NEVER-BEFORE-SEEN PREMIERE ISSUE OF THE SIDESHOW GAZETTE ⚡️

PREPARE TO BE ASTOUNDED by our COLOSSAL collection of RARE and SPECTACULAR photographs! MARVEL at our EXCLUSIVE interviews with LIVING LEGENDS of the midway! WITNESS the ASTONISHING secrets of VINTAGE SIDESHOW HISTORY revealed before your very eyes!

🎭 Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the MOST REMARKABLE, STUPENDOUS, and PHENOMENAL publication your mortal eyes will ever feast upon! 🎭

🎪 Announcing 'Natural Born!' - Where Circus Magic Meets Human Truth

In an age of digital distance, the circus and sideshow remain one of our most visceral connections to raw human experience. Aaron Smith's groundbreaking new book, featuring a soul-stirring foreword by Omnium Circus founder Lisa B. Lewis, doesn't just document circus arts - it celebrates their evolving relevance in 2025.

'Natural Born!' takes you backstage, under the big top, and into the hearts of performers who dare to dream in sawdust and spotlight. This isn't just another historical account - it's a living, breathing testament to the power of human expression and the enduring magic of circus arts.

Pre-orders open February 15th, 2025 from OutsideTalkerPress.com