The Flea Circus

Welcome to this turn of the century Victorian Flea Circus.

More than a century ago they were the star attractions at circuses across the country.Crowds were thrilled as they watched death-defying stunts "performed" by the minutest of creatures.

Many scratched their heads wondering how the small creatures had been "trained" to carry out the stunts.

But now one man is hoping to revive the magic of the flea circus, a show which entertained the masses in Victorian times, and captivate a whole new audience .
Malcolm Jephcott, from Coventry, hopes to introduce a new generation of circus-goers to the wonders of flea entertainment.
His "fleas" will perform daring stunts and amazing tricks during a 15-minute show.
Mr Jephcott, a full-time showman and entertainer, is reviving the flea circus his grandfather became known for. Although times have changed Mr Jephcott , say several experimental performances have proved such a success that he believes it will thrill a new generation of show fans.
Mr Jephcott said: "The show is primarily aimed at children but it's the adults who appear to be totally amazed at the performing 'fleas'. I've even had amongst my audience people who watched my grandfather perform all those years ago and they are still as baffled and amazed. The fleas are specially bred performing fleas who, like me, simply love to entertain and make people laugh and be happy. That's the art of showmanship."

The flea circus was handed down to Mr Jephcott by his father . It had been used by Mr Jephcott's grandfather Sidney, who was a professional showman.