A new mural in tribute to the world-famous illusionist couple has been added to the old Metropolis building on High Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Fred and Connie Van Buren were world-renowned illusionists who started working in circuses in the early 1950s. Throughout their long career, they worked in television, film, and theatre. They even designed illusions for Walt Disney.
Not only known for their live shows, the Van Burens were also famous for designing and building their own illusions.
While the couple weren’t born in Staffordshire, the couple moved to Newcastle-under-Lyme in 1967. Here, they established a workshop and designed some of their most memorable illusions.
While living in the area, they also helped to raise awareness of Philip Astley, who was born in Newcastle-under-Lyme and is credited for inventing the modern-day circus.
Now, local artist Ethan Lemon has commemorated the couple’s connection to the city by creating this eye-catching and vibrant mural in the town centre.
Lemon has painted several murals throughout Staffordshire and also handpainted Alton Towers’ Nemesis Reborn.
Experienced writer and journalist James McKean leads the daily editorial output at StaffsLive. To contact him, email news@staffslive.co.uk
