Throughout the year this traditional circus visits all the provinces in the country in a bid to keep the circus spirit alive in SA.
But their visit to Knysna has caused some residents to call for a boycott of the circus. "I ask everyone to boycott the circus that is currently visiting Knysna as they use animals and animals do not belong in the circus," reads a post on facebook.
In response to this, animal trainer and circus co-owner, David Mclaren said: "All the animals used in our circus are like children to us. They are trained by means of positive reinforcement, just like police dogs and any animal used in movies etc. The lions we have were abandoned by their mother and have therefore grown up with us as part of our family."
Mclaren, who is currently visiting the United States of America to attend various animal training seminars, explained: "Everything that we do is legal and humane. Several animal welfare societies visit us at regular intervals to ensure that the animals are well and that our training methods are above board and only in the best interest of the animals. We are thankful for their input. As I said before, these animals are like our children and we only want what’s best for them."
He expressed sadness that circuses world-wide were "soft targets for animal activists, who often act without the correct information". He continued: "There are so many animals that suffer untold abuse at the hands of their owners in our county. These animals would be far better served by the animal activists. Instead of boycotting our circus, perhaps members of the public should spend time educating the owners and treating the hundreds, even thousands, of animals who are suffering greatly in the many surrounding areas."
In conclusion, Mclaren hoped that those who felt that the Mclaren Circus animals suffer, would visit the circus to put their minds at ease.
The Mclaren Circus has enjoyed good reviews resulting in extended runs. "This year we are bigger and better just for you (the public) with our all new 2011 Programme," enthused Duncan Mclaren, Mclaren Circus co-owner.
"This amazing live show, in a new Big Top circus tent, is recommended for all ages," he said.
Tickets cost R40 (side benches), R60 (raised chairs) or R80 (ringside) per person. Show times are at 15:00 and 19:30 and the shows are 90 minutes in duration. The ticket office is open daily from 10:00. Tickets are available only from the circus site (at Knysna Primary School sports ground). For bookings and more information contact the circus on 082 747 5726.
The opening show was last night (Wednesday, January 19). The circus’ last performance will be the 15:00 show on Sunday, January 23.
The beautiful contortionist, Miss Valerie, who hails from Canada forms part of the Mclaren Circus which is performing in Knysna until Sunday, January 23.
ARTICLE: FRAN KIRSTEN
