After 146 years, Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus is closing
https://www.flickr.com/photos/sarahmworthy/5970426898
“The greatest show on Earth,” comes to an end.
The world’s most famous circus, known as “The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus,” plans on being shut down forever, after their final tour comes to an end. The last show will take place on May 7th, in New York; the last Tampa show however, was on January 29th.
Kenneth Feld, the CEO of The Ringling Bros.’ company announced that the main reason that they decided to shut down “The greatest show on earth,” is due to the drastic decline in ticket sales.
Many people complain about the fact that they treat the animals (specifically the elephants), unethically. Because of those opinions, the company originally decided to quit using elephants in their shows, expecting that to increase ticket sales. Ironically, sales decreased even more than before.
The Ringling Brothers’ company was therefore not earning enough funds to keep their show going.
A few other circuses such as Mills Bros. Circus and Carson & Barnes circus will continue their shows, however they are not nearly as famous as Ringling Bros. It can be expected that most other circuses will die down as well, due to the public opinions on animal cruelty.
People have mixed opinions on the circus being shut down permanently, but the majority say that they are satisfied with this decision.
Brianna Jackson, a Wiregrass Ranch High School (WRHS) senior shares her perspective on the announcement.
“I honestly feel like the circus should have been shut down anyway, regardless of how many tickets were being sold. I personally believe that it is not humane to treat the animals the way they do. However, it is not only this specific company, but circuses in general,” claims Jackson.
It was in the company’s best interest to shut down. They used to be very popular, up until people came to the realization that they practically abuse the animals in order for them to perform properly. The trainers use whips, choking collars, muzzles, electric implements, sharp objects, and other related tools in order to make animals do the tricks they desire.
This animal cruelty is why so many are happy about Barnum & Bailey finally putting away their whips for good.
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My name is Ashley and I am a WRHS senior. I am the editor of the entertainment section of The Stampede newspaper. This is my third year taking journalism....
