The explosions, reenactments, and animals that made Vauxhall Gardens a hot spot
Indeed, such was its fame and longevity that “Vauxhall” was often used as a straightforward synonym for “pleasure garden”: several other towns and cities—including New York—boasted their own “Vauxhall Gardens,” named after the original. Concerts, both indoors and outdoors, were supplemented by variety acts: Ramo Samee, the famed Indian juggler; Mr. Blackmore (stage name “The America”), who performed nightly on the tight and slack rope while wearing a cap fitted with fireworks; Ching Lau Lauro, the acrobat and contortionist; Signor Spelterini, “The Wonderful Italian Hercules”; and, in 1830, the peculiarly popular performance of Michael Boai, “whose unrivaled music on his chin has drawn forth such great astonishment and delight.” His vehicle was promptly renamed the Great Nassau, and made further flights from Vauxhall and other gardens, drawing huge audiences.
Source: www.laphamsquarterly.org