FLUX Rotherham have launched ‘The Sensational Alzanas and Other Daredevils’, a brand-new art and heritage project made possible thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
This project will shine a spotlight on Maltby’s rich and little-known circus history, focusing on the incredible story of Harold Alzana (born Harold Davis) and his family – world-renowned wire walkers with strong ties to Maltby’s heritage roots.
Together with the local community, they held a week-long immersive residency in May called Let’s Circus, which included fun and accessible sessions in wire-walking skills and artists from FLUX Rotherham created workshops based on the fabulous costumes worn by the Alzanas. A mobile museum trailer toured with archival photographs, Pathé film footage, and community stories and memories, shining a light on how local heroes like the Alzanas helped shape the broader history of circus arts.
Maltby Community Festival also saw an eight-metre-high, 18-metre-long hire wire installed for Chris Bullzini and his team to perform breathtaking acts.
Can you help?
As part of the project, FLUX are looking for stories, memories, and photographs related to the Alzana family and Maltby’s circus history. They’re also keen to track down memories of other local daredevils such as Skid Skinner and Daredevil Alma, Wall of Death riders from Hellaby. If you have any information, family connections, or anecdotes to share, email them at hello@fluxrotherham.org.uk.
The project is delivered in partnership with RMBC Neighbourhoods Team, Rotherham Museums, Arts and Heritage and Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust.