'LETTERFIELD' MURALS
Inspired by the jargon of circus workers.
CIRCUS SLANG : Source: "On The Midway", 2008, Wayne N. Keyser
ALFALFA - Paper money.
BALLYHOO - A spotlight cue meaning to sweep the light across the spectators in a figure-8 pattern.
BIG TOP - The main tent used for the performance.
CALLIOPE - A musical instrument consisting of a series of steam whistles played like an organ.
CHERRY PIE - Extra jobs done by circus personnel for extra pay.
FLUKUM - Strolling refreshment vendor’s term for no-brand grape or orange drink sold in the stands.
FLY BAR - An aerialists' swing with a bar instead of a flat seat.
HIGH WIRE - A tightly-stretched wire far above the floor, on which a wire walker performs.
KING POLE - The first pole of the tent to be raised. The main support pole or mast for the tent, sometimes one, two or four in number. Holds the peak of the tent.
ROLA BOLA - A board placed flat on top of a cylindrical roller. A performer balances on the board while performing various feats.
SHANTY - The person who works the lights in the circus.
ZANIES - Clowns.