Norman barrett ringmaster biography of michael lewis

Born and brought up on and around his family's own show (), Norman himself first performed at the age of 12, with his initial 'animal act' - a goat and two dogs! - thereafter presenting his juggling prowess as well.

Norman barrett ringmaster biography of michael Norman Barrett MBE (born ) is a veteran British circus ringmaster who made many appearances on television, notably with Charlie Cairoli in the children's television series Right Charlie. He is well-known for his act with performing budgerigars. [1].

At this stage he was convinced that he wanted to be a wild animal trainer - not a Ringmaster at all - even one day climbing into a cage where some young lions lay sleeping! His father hastily told him that "Lion trainers get more money, but Ringmasters live longer" and so the plan was shelved.

Upon leaving school there was no doubt in his mind that the circus was where his future lay and horses soon became Barrett's first love.

His father had first taught him to ride when still quite young and it wasn't long before Norman was starting to learn the ropes both as an equestrian performer and trainer, gradually earning a reputation as one of the foremost trainers in the country. Even then (in ) Norman's father was very strict with his staff about the care of horses, something which he also instilled into his young son, and this is an ethic in which Norman still believes passionately to this very day!

In recognition of his achievements, Norman was also the unsuspecting subject of Michael Aspel's 'big red book' when he was caught out for 'This Is Your Life' in   The first edition of the show ever to be filmed away from the studios in London, the set up (in strict secrecy) was a mammoth operation - especially since Norman was never far away!

However, with the tremendous assistance of Norman's son Guy who knew the layout of the Circus well, it went off without a hitch.

Norman barrett ringmaster biography of michael jackson THIS IS YOUR LIFE - Norman Barrett, circus ringmaster, was surprised by Michael Aspel as he took his applause at the end of a show, during his last season after 25 years at the Blackpool Tower Circus, from where the programme was then recorded.

Stars from all over the world came to honour the 'Gentleman of Circus' and included Sir Cyril Mills (son of the late Bertram) who was well into his 80's at the time and even one of Bobby Roberts' elephants!

Forty years on, the boy who wanted to be a wild animal trainer has certainly 'done it all' and nowadays, in addition to his principal role as Ringmaster, Norman also performs with his hilarious 'budgies' act - between 12 and 16 colourful little chaps (like a football team some of these are reserves and 'learners') who create their own brand of mayhem using cars, slides, hot-air balloons and see-saws, not to mention an exploding cannon - carefully aimed at their 'dad'!

Why budgies? "Well", says Norman, "because they are very light and easy to transport with the minimum of props, they are readily available and above all - they're cheap (groan)!"

There is little doubt that as Norman Barrett celebrates his diamond anniversary, he is truly a 'living legend'. Sixty years on and having come a long, long way from those early performances with his goat and two dogs, Zippos is immensely proud to have the benefit of not only Norman's experience, but also his relentless energy, talent and professionalism, all of which makes him the true star that he is!

For this year's Spanish-themed production, Norman is preparing an all-new act with his little 'aviator amigos', though our 'Head Honcho' quips, "I don't think I'll do any bullfighting with them - one of them might gore me!"

Jo Thoenes took him out of the ring and into the studio to find out more about his extraordinary life

Zippos Circus is at South Parks from the 10th April to the 15th April
Tickets (9am- 8pm):
Check out the website by clicking on the link on the top right of this page.