Being for the Benefit of Mr Kite!

John Lennon's lyrics to this famous Beatles song (from the Sgt Pepper album) were inspired by a poster for Pablo Fanque's circus and a  particular performance held in Rochdale in 1843.

 Born in Norwich in 1796 (as William Darby), Britain's only Black circus proprieter, Pablo Fanque first appeared in the ring in Norwich in 1821, with acts including horsemanship, rope walking, leaping and rope vaulting. In 1843 he founded his own troupe, touring Lancashire and Yorkshire.

He went on to become outstandingly successful, making his London debut in 1847. He worked with some of the biggest names in the business including the clown - Henry Brown (1814 - 1902) and the American rider Young Hernandez (1832 - 1861).  His shows often sold out wherever they were performed.

 In 1848,  "Fanques Ampitheatre" came to Norwich for the winter season, performing in the Victoria Gardens.  

Find out more about Pablo Fanque and other great Black Britons at 100 Great Black Britons.com.