Philip Astley

Philip Astley was an English cavalry veteran, riding master and showman whose performances helped establish the format of the modern circus. Born at Newcastle-under-Lyme in 1742, he served with light dragoons during the Seven Years’ War and developed a reputation as an expert horseman. After leaving the army he began giving equestrian displays in London and discovered that trick riding worked particularly well in a circular arena, where centrifugal force helped riders balance during difficult manoeuvres.

From the late 1760s Astley expanded his riding exhibitions by adding acrobats, clowns, musicians and other acts, creating a mixed programme that competitors quickly imitated. His London amphitheatre became a famous entertainment venue, and he established or influenced similar enterprises in Paris and elsewhere in Europe. Astley did not invent every element of circus performance, but his combination of the ring, equestrian skill and varied supporting acts became foundational to the modern form. He died in Paris on 20 October 1814.

In Tracy Chevalier’s Burning Bright, in 1792, the Kellaway family leaves rural Dorset after a death and settles in Lambeth, where chair-maker Thomas Kellaway has found work connected with Philip Astley’s circus.