The year 1896 marked the coronation of Nicholas II as Emperor of Russia, and it just so happened that an Italian circus by the name of Grand Cirque Truzzi was touring Russia while the celebrations were taking place. Prominent among the artists performing in this circus were Alberto and Giulia Rastelli, a young couple who were showcasing their skills as jugglers and aerialists. Towards the end of that eventful year (19 December), their first son, Enrico, was born in Samara. He would go on to become the best juggler that…
