REVIEWS

Mexican Circus uses people, not animals, to entertain. By Stephen Tipper Daily Herald Prince Albert July 7, 2000. Prince Albert residents can re-educate themselves about the role of animals in the circus this week, says a circus tour organizer. Misty Press said the Mexican International Circus, which uses no animals in its acts, wants people to realize that a circus can be just as—if not more—entertaining as a circus that uses animals."Once they've seen the show, it's never an issue," said Press. … The show features acrobats, show-girls, trapeze and high-wire artists, contortionists and clowns, and has been animal- free for more than 15 years, she said. However, the circus would earn more money if it used animals, but the time is coming when more people recognize that animals do not belong in a circus act. She points to municipalities in British Columbia, where laws have been passed restricting or banning the use of circus animals. Press said there's nothing people can't learn from an elephant or tiger that's in a zoo, as the animals would not naturally do the activities performed during an act. It's also dangerous for the performers and trainers to work with the animals, adding the circus stopped using animals after the owner was attacked by about seven lions and almost lost his arm, she said. The circus stays away from controversy in the areas it visits by traveling without animals too, and that makes it easier to travel, she said. "It's a tough life for us people." Press said. "I can't imagine what it would be like for them." The circus promotes causes similar to it by donating a portion of it's pre-sold tickets to the local Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. But circus animals are not mistreated, as they are worth a lot of money, Press said. … Erin Ruel, a member of Teens for Animal Rights Today, said the timing is "perfect", coming after the protest of the Shriners Circus in May. Because that circus uses animals, circus goers can compare the difference between the two and judge which one they would prefer to see, she said." I think it's really good because people can see for themselves," said Ruel.

Home Show Tickets Schedule Reviews Contact