UniverSoul Circus Returns, PETA Protests

MOUNT VERNON, NY – The Universoul Circus, with their acrobats, contortionists, stilt walkers, comedic clowns, trick dirt bikes, and more, is back in the city for the second consecutive year. But not everyone is happy.

Wednesday night is Mount Vernon Night under the big top tent. Mayor Richard Thomas will serve as the guest MC for an evening of fun, excitement, and Mount Vernon pride. Gates open at 6:30 pm and the show starts at 7 pm.

PETA will be protesting outside. A "crying elephant" will lead the demonstration at UniverSoul Circus' opening-night performance. The protesters will display a bullhook—a weapon that resembles a fireplace poker with a sharp hook on one end, which circus handlers use to threaten elephants into performing.

"It's clearer than ever that today's compassionate public has no interest in sitting through UniverSoul's abusive animal acts," PETA Foundation Associate Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Rachel Mathews said in a press release. "PETA is calling on all wild-animal circuses still on the road to end cruel and antiquated animal acts and modernize their shows by using only willing human performers."

Image via Mayor's Office