Why were the jugglers of the Soviet era so extraordinary? This book finally gives you the definitive answer.

For the first time ever, the most influential writings of Soviet-era juggling masters are gathered into a single, comprehensive volume. Translated carefully into English by ND Juggling and Oddballs Juggling (UK)—led by Niels Duinker alongside native speakers and editors—this essential compendium gives modern jugglers direct access to the revolutionary ideas, structured training methods, and artistic mindsets that produced the most legendary generation in juggling history.

The jugglers who emerged from the Soviet circus system were world-renowned for their astonishing consistency, technical depth, and flawless artistic control. This level of mastery was no accident, nor was it built on raw talent alone. It was engineered through rigorous physical preparation, mental discipline, and a deep respect for juggling as a serious cultural craft. This book reveals exactly why that system worked and how its timeless principles can elevate your own practice today.

Inside the Book

The compendium opens with a foreword by legendary coach Yuriy Pozdnyakov, alongside individual forewords by world-famous jugglers Viktor Kee and Albert Lucas. Their insider perspectives connect historic Russian and Soviet circus traditions directly to modern performance art.

The historical lineage explored here traces back to Enrico Rastelli (born in the Russian Empire in 1896 and widely considered the greatest juggler of all time) and carries through Soviet icons like Alexander Kiss, Nikolay Bauman, Sergei Ignatov, and Mikhail Rudenko.

Included Masterworks:

• "If You Are a Juggler" by Alexander Kiss – A philosophical reflection on true dedication to the craft.

• "The Art of Juggling" by Nikolay Bauman – A deep dive into technique, structure, and physical control.

• "Paradoxes of Juggling" by Mikhail Staroseletsky – An investigation into practice methodology, biomechanics, and injury prevention.

• "Systematic Training for Juggling" by Mikhail Rudenko – A complete step-by-step framework for building elite juggling skills.

Correcting Juggling History

Along the way, the text clarifies critical pieces of juggling history. For instance, the book sets the record straight on Mikhail Rudenko, the innovator behind the popular "Russian ball" design. While the name persisted globally, Rudenko actually lived, trained, and developed these iconic filled-ball designs and methods in Ukraine. Richly illustrated with rare archival images from renowned historians Karl-Heinz Ziethen and David Cain, this volume brings juggling's true origin stories to light.

Whether you are a prop manipulator, circus historian, or dedicated performer, this book is essential reading. Discover not just how to juggle better, but how the greatest masters in history reached the peak of the art form—and how their secrets can transform your skills today.