Circus back in town for big-top entertainment

The McLaren Circus will return to East London from February 20 to March 1, promising nine days of traditional big-top entertainment — but the arrival of the touring show has again sparked debate over the use of animals in circus performances. The circus will pitch its marquee at Police Park, offering what organisers describe as a high-energy, family-focused spectacle, featuring acrobatics, aerial acts and motorbike stunts, alongside performing animals. Circus spokesperson Karl Hildebrandt said the circus had grown from modest beginnings into what he describes as Southern Africa’s only traditional touring circus.

“The McLaren Circus opened in a hired 150-seat tent at Blue Route Mall in Tokai, Cape Town, on March 24 2005,” Hildebrandt said. “In those early days, the entire show travelled with just two caravans, a bakkie and a red and yellow marquee. “Today we are proud to say we are Southern Africa’s only traditional touring circus.” He said the circus now toured all nine provinces with its own fleet of trucks, a large marquee and generator-powered equipment.

“We have worked hard to preserve the wholesome magic, culture and variety of classic circus entertainment,” Hildebrandt said. “We operate independently, without sponsorship or funding, and are sustained by the loyal support of South African audiences.” Among this year’s headline attractions is an expanded Globe of Death act, where three motorcyclists race inside a steel sphere. “It is always one of the most thrilling moments of the show, and when those motorcycles enter the globe, you can feel the excitement in the tent,” he said. Another major feature will be the return of the international Flying Valderrama troupe, presenting a Flying Trapeze act that has not toured SA in nearly three decades.