Thrilling Facts About Zazel, The First Human Cannonball
Most Victorians could only dream about flying, but Rossa Richter—best known as Zazel—made flying her full-time job. However, Zazel soon discovered that becoming the first human cannonball and a circus superstar came with a high price.
Because once you go up—or get blasted into the air by a cannonball—the only place to go is down.
1. She Was A Nepo Baby
In 1860, Rossa Matilda Richter was born in London, and straight into the circus. Her mom, Suzanne Richter, was a dancer while her dad, Ernst Karl Richter, was a prominent talent agent. On top of that, they essentially groomed her for the circus. Following in their footsteps was a matter of when, not if. Rossa never stood a chance.
She was destined to become the famous performer, Zazel...She just didn't know it yet.
2. She Was Groomed
While other kids learned the alphabet, Rossa learned how to perform aerial stunts, trapeze, ballet, and gymnastics. Her parents knew the dangers, but they never called it quits. Instead, they just taught her the best ways to fall, preparing her for her risky future. Rossa’s childhood only got even more dangerous.
Published in The New York Clipper without author credit, Wikimedia Commons
3. She Was In Danger
Children, dangerous stunts, and questionable safety practices is already a bad combination—but there’s more. To make matters worse, Rossa practiced these stunts in an abandoned church. While Rossa tried her best not to fall, the building itself was falling apart. Suzanne and Ernst were never parents of the year, but soon felt vindicated.
Published in the New York Clipper without an author credit, Wikimedia Commons
4. She Stole The Show
One girl’s loss was this girl’s gain. After the actress who played one of Cinderella’s sisters became sick and couldn’t perform, Rossa filled in. It was supposed to be temporary, but audiences adored her. She continued performing and perfecting her skills. Rossa wasn’t even six-years-old, but she had long kissed her childhood goodbye.
