Show Poster, 1778
This exceptional document is a theater and performance poster from 1778 (an “announcement poster”) printed with the authorization of the authorities of the time (“By Permission”). Despite its name, “Chinese Troupe of the Academy of All Kinds of Highly Amusing Performances”,it is in fact a typical example of the “Chinoiserie” trend of the late 18th century, featuring .
The show combines circus arts (acrobatics, balancing acts) and popular theater. It is divided into several parts:
Tightrope dancing (wire act): The show opens with feats of agility on a tightrope. Three iconic figures from pantomime and the carnival take the stage in succession: Mademoiselle Neapolitaine (the famous Roman woman). The Incomparable Anglois (an accomplished acrobat). The Paillasse (the clown of the era, described as “a true buffoon”). The Grand Branle: A rhythmic group dance featuring balancing instruments (“with and without balancing sticks”). The “Englishman’s” acrobatics:This performer is the star of the show. He climbs onto a steel wire to perform complex balancing acts on the ground and in the air. He amazes the audience by playing several instruments simultaneously: he beats two snare drums at the same time, one balanced on his nose and the other held in front of his body, all while keeping time with the orchestra. His performance ends with “grand somersaults ” forward and backward The sword act: Mademoiselle la Venitienne takes the stage, spinning around for a full quarter of an hour with four swords in her hands, tracing geometric shapes in the air. The theatrical finale: To close the evening, the troupe performs a “Spanish Comedy in Pantomime”, a very fashionable genre, packed with visual effects, rapid costume changes, and magical transformations on stage.
The show combines circus arts (acrobatics, balancing acts) and popular theater. It is divided into several parts:
980 €
Period: 18th century
Style: Other Style
Condition: Condition of use
Material: Paper
Reference (ID): 1834394
Availability: In stock
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