Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford The Final Illusion of the Great Lafayette
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Feb 3, 2023 The podcast takes listeners on a thrilling journey through the life of the Great Lafayette, an entertainer whose last show turned tragic when a fire erupted during a performance. It delves into the chaos of historical theater fires, including the catastrophic Brooklyn Theatre blaze where panic led to massive loss of life. The discussion emphasizes the crucial role of effective communication in emergencies and the profound impact of crowd behavior during crises, showing that calmness in chaos can be both vital and perilous.
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Lafayette's Transformation
- The Great Lafayette, inspired by successful Chinese magicians, adopted a similar persona.
- This, along with Houdini's gift of a dog named Beauty, transformed his career.
Lafayette and Beauty
- Beauty, Lafayette's dog, became his stage assistant and loyal companion.
- Lafayette's love for Beauty led him to prioritize her well-being above all else.
The Fire at the Empire Palace Theatre
- During a performance of "The Lion's Bride," a fire broke out on stage.
- The locked backstage doors, a precaution insisted upon by Lafayette, became a deadly obstacle.
