Fly, Birdman, Fly

Ever since he was a kid, Vrinda “Birdman” Farella wanted to fly. He and his childhood friend Seamus used to go down to the flat field near the river in the early summer when the breezes blew strongest off the water. All day they would test kites they made at home from old tent scraps and fishing line.

They didn’t have much money then, unlike now where he draws tens of thousands to his exhibitions, each spending an average of $150 in tickets and merchandise.

Vrinda looked out at the crowd at the Iowa State Fair. Farm families looking for some exciting aerial derring-do. He knew they were about to get more than they bargained for — after today, he would never perform again. It would be his greatest, final act.