Legendary Trapeze Artist Pinito del Oro Celebrated in New Film
Pinito del Oro, heralded as the greatest trapeze artist of all time, is the subject of a new film premiering in Spain on July 10. Directed by Arima León, Tal vez explores the remarkable life of María Cristina del Pino Segura, who rose to fame amidst a backdrop of personal struggles and triumphs.
Born in 1936 in Gran Canaria, Pinito’s early life was marked by hardship, including a large family where her talents were initially discouraged by her mother, who wanted her to avoid the rigours of circus life. As a child, she experienced three near-fatal falls but persevered, ultimately stepping onto the trapeze for her first performance.
Her father, José Segura, famed for founding the Gran Circo Segura, played a pivotal role in her career. Initially reluctant to let her pursue the circus, Pinito’s journey took off when, inspired by a moment of grief over her sister’s death, she began training on the trapeze. Her father not only supported her but also named her “Pinito del Oro” to distinguish her from other performers.
Pinito’s ascent to fame was marked by daring performances that captivated audiences. She famously signed contracts stipulating that she would perform without safety nets, a testament to her commitment and courage.
At 16, she married Juan de la Fuente, who became her partner in both life and trapeze acts, risking his own safety in support of her daring feats. Despite the challenges of the Franco era, she achieved international acclaim, performing with the renowned Ringling Brothers circus and catching the eye of legendary filmmaker Cecil B. De Mille.
The film by León not only highlights Pinito’s professional milestones but also her personal contradictions. Though she experienced a creative and liberated existence, she identified as conservative politically and made choices that often challenged societal norms, including an early decision to have an abortion to focus on her career.
Pinito’s legacy is significant. After retiring in 1970, she authored several books and received numerous accolades, including the National Circus Prize and a Gold Medal for Fine Arts. She passed away in 2017, leaving behind a profound impact on the circus world and a memory that continues to inspire.
In recognition of her remarkable life and contributions, flowers are occasionally left at a plaque near her childhood home, commemorating the artistry and bravery of a woman who truly lived without a safety net. The film Tal vez aims to preserve her legacy and the lessons of resilience and courage she embodied.
