Portage County Historical Society

The Geraldos

The Geraolds (Madeline & Rene) came to the USA to the Ringling Show around and maybe just before 1950.

Rigging is “double trapeze”, but notice each trapeze hangs separate from the other, as opposed to being connected to each other.

Both Madeline & Rene performed bare legged and bare foot! Performing extremely difficult and dangerous ankle catches and holds, up in the air!

Madeline was very strong and held her husband Rene effortlessly. Also, notice she held the tricks from a straight “knee-hang” as opposed to a cradle position. This example of her extreme strength and also the trust of her partner!

In the early years of Frank’s (Clark) performing, the Geraldos were very good friends and were on many shows together. When Frank decided to learn head-balance-trapeze, he bought his first pratice rigging from them.

Treasured friends of Frank’s and an example of exhibiting their particular and dangerous aerial art in the extraordinary way!

The Geraldos

No Sound! Approximately 1 minute. Short video.