Ward Hall-The Making of a Sideshow 'Talker'

Veteran sideshow performer-owner Ward Hall explains the characteristics of a good fairgrounds "talker" (also known as "barker" by outsiders.) Videotaped at Florida State Fair-Tampa, New Jersey State Fair-Meadowlands and Stratford, CT, in 2008.

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Entertainment

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• Sideshow
• Ward
• Hall
• state
• fair
• bally
• Meadowlands
• New
• Jersey
• Florida
• World
• of
• Wonders

[pawntucky]

Ward Hall is awesome! I saw him at Coney Island last week. Thank the heavens for old showmen and freakshows in this world of dull technology and tepid personalities.

[LaneInConn]

@pawntucky I'll second that motion...

[LaneInConn]

Yes, Ward still lives in Gibtown, when he's not accepting his latest award--which he'll do on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 16, when the Great Hall will be inducted into the Circus Ring of Fame in Sarasota.

[dionfly]

@merenwentari Did you find him?

[DrDeaconBlue]

I Imagine he still lives in Gibtown, check with the showmens assoc. in Gibsonton Florida

[merenwentari]

Is Ward Hall still with us? If so, is there any way to get a hold of him? I am the daughter of Marie King (Sweet Marie), a fat lady in his show for many years, and would like to see if he has any memories of her. I do not want to interfere in his life, but I am still trying to find my history and would appreciate anything he could tell me. Thank you.