March 31, 2016 

By Jennifer Bihm 

Assistant Editor 

 

L.A. County residents still have a chance to catch the UniverSoul Circus, at the Stub Hub Center in Carson. Performers will be packing up Sunday April 17. Until then, spectators will be privy to everything that makes a circus great, including clowns, trapeze artists, contortionists, live animals and magicians. . Until then, spectators will be privy to everything that makes a circus great, including clowns, trapeze artists, contortionists, live animals and magicians.

 

“The UniverSoul Circus is a world-class, live entertainment attraction that has captured the hearts and imaginations of a new generation of families,” said a spokesperson for the show via their website.

 

“Celebrating its 23rd year of FUN, UniverSoul Circus has come full circle in its influence in the international entertainment marketplace - garnering the distinction of being known as a one-of-a-kind, must see attraction…”

 

And one of a kind it is. Though it has all the ingredients of standard circus fare, UniverSoul adds a multicultural feel to the show, multi- “culturality” being something they emphasize. Audiences are often interacting with performers, dancing to Soul music, doing DJ call and answer sessions and playing with props.

 

“UniverSoul connects with progressive, upwardly mobile, urban pop cultures from around the world,” said the spokesperson.

 

“It embraces and celebrates the unique and familiar aspects of global cultures and ethnicities into a stellar production that blends circus arts, theater and music. UniverSoul’s fresh, cool and hip approach to live family entertainment has earned it a coveted spot as one of the top ten most requested family attractions, along with other shows, including Disney on Ice, Disney’s High School Musical Ice Show and Ringling Brothers Circus…”

 

Some disagreed however, crediting the show with inflicting cruelty to animals. The protestors handed passers by fliers and information, detailing the harm inflicted on the various creatures, (which included zebras, ponies and white tigers) involved in the show. However, UniverSoul officials assures patrons that animal rights are a priority for them.

 

“The UniverSoul Circus is committed to the proper treatment of animals,” they said.

 

“We strongly oppose any form of cruelty or mistreatment of animals, wild or domestic – and will not tolerate any mistreatment on our circus site. UniverSoul Circus understands and supports all efforts to monitor and regulate the ­treatment of animals. As such, we work closely with local, state and federal agencies to ensure that our commitment to a high standard of animal care is upheld. Any and all animal acts that perform with the UniverSoul Circus must be in compliance with federal, state and local rules, ordinances, and regulations. The UniverSoul Circus will continue to deliver high quality, family friendly entertainment that brings joy, happiness and laughter to audiences around the world.”

 

For more information visit www.universoulcircus.com.

Category: Community