No horseplay, but the show goes on

The shows have finally started almost after 10 days since the tents of the Jumbo Circus were erected on Island Grounds. There are no animals this time owing to the ban on their participation under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, yet the circus hopes to present a terrific show in the city. 

The venue came by default. The circus staff had started setting up their tent, hoping to be able to perform near the Central station “But we couldn’t get the venue. We were then told to be part of the fair,” says P. A. Suresh Babu, manager of the Jumbo Circus. 

Being part of the Trade Fair apart, this show will also be different as it’s the first time that there will be no animal performances. “We usually perform with elephants, horses, camels and parrots. We have left them at Mysore and included special performances by African and Manipuri artistes,” says Suresh.  “This is a one-of-a-kind show that Chennaiites will love. 

These artistes will do a gig in which they’ll replicate the movements of various wild animals and perform gravity defying stunts. We also have artistes from Manipur who balance themselves on a thin pole, and regular performances by trapeze artists and multiple bikers inside a round cage,” says Suresh.  The circus, in its former avatar, had its own charm and many takers. 

“There have many changes over the years. Decades ago, tigers and lions were allowed to perform. Now animals are banned, but we continue. We have been carrying forward this legacy for decades and will mould ourselves to changing times,” he adds. 

The circus staff hopes that audiences increase after Pongal. There are three shows every day at 1 pm, 4 pm and 7 pm. Tickets are priced at Rs 80, 160 and 250.