This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von E496 A Carny
Apr 18, 2024
Mitch Candiano, a third-generation carny from Massachusetts, shares his colorful carnival experiences. He dives into the rich history of carnival life, discussing everything from his family's century-long involvement to the peculiarities of freak shows, including a three-legged man. Mitch humorously reveals the tricks behind carnival games, the camaraderie and rivalries among workers, and wild stories of smoke sessions with a munchkin from the Wizard of Oz. It's a chaotic, nostalgic journey through the magic and mayhem of the carnival world.
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Carny Definition
- Mitch Candiano, a self-described "carny", explains the term's origin, meaning carnival worker.
- Some associate "carny" with ex-convicts, but true carnies have deep roots in the business.
Family History
- Candiano's family has been in the carnival business since 1918, starting with his grandfather selling cotton candy.
- He still owns his grandfather's handmade, wooden cotton candy machines.
Carnivals vs. Fairs
- Candiano differentiates between carnivals and fairs, with fairs incorporating agricultural elements.
- He describes rivalries and fights between carnival unit crews, based on status and equipment.