More Henry Lions
Posted By thecircusblog on August 28, 2008
The Henry lions were exhibition animals in the menagerie and also performing animals. In the early days there was no steel arena. They were brought out into the circus ring on a lunge line to perform their tricks. They never worked as a large group. Later an arena was built only 8 to 12 cats were ever worked. The Henry brothers would take turns working the cat act. My Dad said that Artur”Bum” Henry was the best at the act. My grandfathers philosophy was keep those lions fat and lazy and take your time in the arena. If they don’t want to do the trick, turn it into comedy………. The audience will never know the difference and they will love it.
About the author
thecircusblog
My name is Ivan M. Henry and I am the 4th generation of a circus/show business dynasty. I hope you enjoy the blog.Comments
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Max told Kandra and I about the Henry show wanting a lion act at some time in his youth. The kicker was that your Dad and Max went in the cage with a bucket of raw beef to start the training. He said that a battle royal ensued over that bucket of beef. Kandra and I doubled over from laughing ever time he would tell that story.