Ringling Bros. brings “Dragons” to Pittsburgh

 Lions and tigers and… Dragons!

Yes, that’s right! Dragons are heading to Pittsburgh when Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey present Dragons, November 6 – 10 at Consol Energy Center.

“The show is based on the year of the dragon,” said Alexander Lacey, Big Cat Trainer for the Circus. “We have so many amazing things with this show. We also have the Shaolin Kung Fu Warriors. They’re incredible. They lift themselves up in the air on spears and don’t get stabbed. It’s pretty scary.”

The always amazing, circus is an event unlike any other featuring the best of the best in skill, strength and bravery. This year’s show is a never-before-seen blend of renowned spiritual and real life legends which translates to fun for the whole family. 

“It’s a very traditional show presented in a modern atmosphere,” said Lacey. “It’s kind of like channel surfing on TV. If you don’t like something, a few minutes later there’s something else on.”

Featuring one act to another such as the Shaolin Kung Fu Warriors, Cossack riders, Asian elephants, fierce tigers and the much-loved Globe of Steel – the audience will be whisked from one performance to the next while holding onto the edge of their seat.

In addition to the many acts, audience members will observe real world displays that pay tribute to the dragon, one of the most beloved mythical beasts. We might even catch a glimpse of the elusive beast – but what will it take?

While each year the circus features many new and exciting acts, one of the most beloved acts is the big cats – this year featuring Alexander Lacey, who has raised more than 11 generations of big cats for circus performances. To many the thought of working with exotic animals may be exciting, but it’s certainly hard work.

“I have always loved exotic animals,” said Lacey. “Training is not difficult. You need to find what the animal is good at and work with it. The most difficult part of my day is the lack of sleep. It’s really a 24-hour a day job. You really have to love and enjoy what you do because you do it every day of the year.”

Lacey loves his cats like children – in fact when raising the animals most live in his home for a period of time. 

“Most of the cats live with me until they’re about six months old, then I have to kick them out because they tear the place apart,” said Lacey. “We bottle feed them when they’re young; they must be fed every two hours. They’re waited on hand and foot and want for nothing which is why most live well beyond the average age.”

Generally speaking, big cats in the wild will live until they’re teenagers, but a well-kept big cat with Lacey can survive well into their 20s and continue working alongside their children.

“When we breed, the cubs work alongside the parents in the show,” said Lacey. “We don’t retire our animals to a sanctuary either. We don’t think it’s fair to take an animal away from their normal routine. These animals are used to working. I’m with them from the minute they open their eyes until they close their eyes for the last time.”

You’d think the felines would be stubborn to train, but according to Lacey it’s quite the opposite since he’s never met a cat he couldn’t work with.

“I’ve never had a cat I can’t train,” said Lacey. “Some are just more intelligent and talented. We might have one that can jump, roll and walk on hind legs but another might just be able to jump. We just work with it.”

In addition to the circus, all ticket holders are invited to the show early to experience the All-Access Pre-Show where families can participate in interactive experiences such as learning to juggle, balancing skills and get performer autographs. The audience will even witness an Asian elephant paint a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that some lucky person will take home.

Don’t miss your chance to catch “Dragons” at Consol Energy Center this week! Tickets start at just $20 and opening night tickets are just $12! On select performances, kid’s tickets are just $12 as well. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.consolenergycenter.com, www.ticketmaster.com or www.ringling.com.