Dungarvan Observer 6 April 1918
The Circus Comes to Dungarvan
Duffy and McLean’s Circus advertised their visit to
Dungarvan on 8 April 1918. The acts included the ‘Sensation’ – Nature’s
strongest caprice – Andy, the remarkable Sea-lion man. He juggles anything you
hand him, bring something.
Also on the programme was ‘The Greatest Wonder of the
Age’ – ZENO, the incomparable revolving Globe performer and inimitable juggler,
in an up-to-date specialty act – ‘Atlas Triumphant’.
The circus included some of the best performing horses
and ponies then touring Ireland. There were also clowns – pessimistic,
optimistic, singing, dancing, and tumbling.
‘A little nonsense is relished by the wisest men. That
is the reason all wise men come to see Duffy and McLean’s curious comical
conglomeration of curious clowns and colossal contraband of comedy connivers,
dressed in camouflage, which causes contentment and facial calisthenics
conducive to a condition foreign to commiseration’.
The circus planed to parade at 1 o’clock headed by a
‘Grand Brass Band’.
Admission was 2 shillings and 4 pence, 1 shilling and
3 pence and 8 pence. Children were admitted for 2 and a half pence and ‘inmates
of the Union’ [Workhouse] were free.
The circus was run by James Duffy and Elizabeth
McLean.
When the circus arrived in Dungarvan it was held in
the Gaelic field, which is now called Fraher Field.
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| Circus Parade in Lower Main Street ,Dungarvan, early 1900's |