Shrine Circus

Cruelty to the animals behind the scenes. Stabbing elephants with bull hooks. Repetitive movements (swaying etc.) due to stress and boredom.

Went to the Markham location. Thought that this circus was really below average. Not nearly as good as Ringling Brothers
The worst was that it was super hot inside (and this was on a 25 degree day). It was really uncomfortable to the point that I was just waiting for it to end so I could escape to the breeze outside. I’ve been to a few circus before, and don’t remember ever being this hot.
Apart from that a few other things to keep in mind:
–no permanent restrooms. Instead they have the portable ones
–no assigned seating
–free parking
–it is super commercialized. They really are trying hard to sell various things/​services throughout the show. Wish they could’ve spent a fraction of that money on keeping the guests cool
We came with a groupon, and would have felt absolutely ripped off if we paid full price.

Went to the Markham location. Had a promo code so got 2 tickets for $ 38. For this price it was a really great value. Show lasted 2 hours including a 30 minute intermission ($ 10 elephant ride during intermission for the kids. $ 15 for adults). Good variety of acts and decent food ($ 5 hot dogs, large cotton candy, popcorn). The «light up toy guy» was oddly aggressive and angry. Overall it was an entertaining show!