World Sword Swallower’s Day was celebrated at Ripley’s Odditoriums around the globe.
Six sword swallowers participated in New York City: Harley Newman, James Stilianos,
Nicholas Penney, Veruschka, Todd Robbins and Riley Schillaci.
Also pictured is Robbins’ son, Finn, who celebrated with a foam sword.
Ask professional sword swallowers about the dangers of their art, and they’ll tell you their lives are at risk with every swig of steel. But for some, the perilous stunt is what helps life go on. Natasha Veruschka — a New York City belly dancer and sword swallower. For her, the ancient art has proved therapeutic since the passing of her husband, Terrance Shands-Galloway, in November.
The couple had been married for 22 years. He was also her manager throughout her 10-year career.
Continue reading… “Sword Swallowing: The World’s Most Dangerous Form of Therapy”
