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THE KNIE DYNASTY

When Friedrich Knie (1784-1850), the son of an Austrian doctor, fell in love with Wilma, a beautiful equestrienneA female equestrian, or horse trainer, horse presenter, or acrobat on horseback., in 1803 at Innsbruck, little did he know that this adventure would be at the origin of one of the most prestigious circus dynasties. Born in Erfurt and nineteen years old, the young Friedrich left his studies without a second thought and went on to roam the country with a small company of traveling performers... (more...)

Recent Biographies

• Alberto Zoppé, Equestrian, Circus Owner
• Duo Mouvance, Aerialists
• The Knie family, Circus Owners
• The Qian Brothers, Jugglers
• Roby Gasser, Circus Director, Sea Lion Trainer

Featured Oral Histories

• Barry Lubin, Clown (Grandma) - Interview (Jando 2008)
• Fumagalli, Clown - Interview (Jando 2008)
• Kris Kremo, Juggler - Interview (Jando 2007)

Featured Video

• The Qian Brothers, jugglers (1988)

A Message from the Editor

CIRCOPEDIA is a constantly evolving and expanding encyclopedia of the international circus. New videos, biographies, essays, and documents are added to the site on a weekly—and sometimes daily—basis. Keep visiting us: even if today you don't find what you're looking for, it may well be here tomorrow!

Dominique Jando