via Not Sweating The Small Stuff :
Born in Marseilles, Le Petomane discovered his amazing facility swimming in the sea as a child. He could - at will - take in large quantities of water and - equally at will - expel it.
Of course water turned to air and after his debut in Paris in 1887 and some touring of the provinces, he went very big time at Le Moulin Rouge in 1892 - becoming an instant sensation.
Each emission of the performance would be properly introduced:
This is a little girl.
This is a bride on her wedding night. (small noise)
This is a bride the morning after. (much larger rasping noise)
This is a cannon. (very large noise)
And so on, with the audience apoplectic with laughter. No high art going on here!
But wait, there’s a recording ! Who knew ? (thanks Ace!)
And of course there’s also this timeless modern day interpretation. You’re welcome.