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Norfolk-born Lion Tamer Returns To Great Yarmouth Hippodrome

1981 , Great Yarmouth (Norfolk)

Cat no. 111654

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Norfolk-born lion-tamer Robert Raven discusses and demonstrates his role at Great Yarmouth's Hippodrome Circus.

Interview footage of Norfolk-born lion tamer Robert Raven is interspersed with footage of caged lions and scenes from Gerry Cottle's circus within the Great Yarmouth Hippodrome. The film begins with silent footage of Robert Raven lion taming at the circus. Then follows traditional circus music playing over shots of weary caged lionesses. Raven recounts to interviewer Graham Bell how he overcame his childhood fear of animals and how personal tragedy provoked circus leader Gerry Cottle to give him his break in the profession. Raven is not fearful of the lions but acknowledges they are most dangerous when in season. Footage of lions being woken, cajoled and transported in cages is intercut with lively circus activity. Jugglers and other performers continue to entertain the enthusiastic clapping onlookers as Raven is introduced by ringmistress Yasmine Smart.

Featured Buildings

Hippodrome Circus

Keywords

Circuses; Lions; Yarmouth Hippodrome; Performing Animals; Lion Tamers

Background Information

Ringmistress Yasmine Smart is the granddaughter of famous English showman Billy Smart.

Manifestations

Norfolk-born Lion Tamer Returns To Great Yarmouth Hippodrome

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