Calgary resident Paul Godard is thrilled to share his take on a classic sideshow attraction: a flea circus. This childhood dream has now become a reality for Godard, who recalls being captivated by a flea circus performance at the Calgary Stampede in the 1960s.
Godard assures his audience that they are safe from flea bites during his show. “These are not dog or cat fleas,” he explains. “It’s all an illusion.” Godard employs traditional magic techniques, such as magnets, wires, and even mirrors, to create the illusion of flea performances.
Flea circuses have a long history, dating back to the early 1800s. Godard notes that they were particularly popular in Europe. He acquired some of his circus components from a California-based individual.
Godard’s upcoming performances include the Calgary Opera’s Wonderland event on May 10th. Later in the spring and summer, he plans to take his flea circus busking around various Calgary locations. Godard believes he is the only flea circus operator in Canada west of the St. Lawrence River. “It’s a dying art,” he says.
