Dirk Arthur has returned with big cats to the Strip stage at the Riviera, where his Wild Illusions show debuted at Starlite Theater at the start of December. In all, seven exotic cats are brought to the stage as Arthur blends classic magic, giant illusions and comedy segments.
As his return to Vegas approached, Arthur’s show has drawn criticism and protest from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and some of his fellow entertainers (such as tribute artist Stephen Sorrentino) for his exhibition of animals in a production show. In December 2013 and February of this year, Arthur was cited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture safety for infractions related to his care for the animals. He has addressed those concerns, centered on using declawed animals and the size and conditions of his cages. He is in compliance with safety agencies, and clear to perform his show at the Riv.
This show needs to be stopped now! We, who have respect for animals are so appalled by the use of big cats in entertainment, and the cruelty of declawing them.
http://lasvegasweekly.com/as-we-see-it/weekly-qa/2014/dec/17/interview-dirk-arthur-magician-big-cats/
Dirk Arthur has returned with big cats to the Strip stage at the Riviera, where his Wild Illusions show debuted at Starlite Theater at the start of December. In all, seven exotic cats are brought to the stage as Arthur blends classic magic, giant illusions and comedy segments.
As his return to Vegas approached, Arthur’s show has drawn criticism and protest from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and some of his fellow entertainers (such as tribute artist Stephen Sorrentino) for his exhibition of animals in a production show. In December 2013 and February of this year, Arthur was cited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture safety for infractions related to his care for the animals. He has addressed those concerns, centered on using declawed animals and the size and conditions of his cages. He is in compliance with safety agencies, and clear to perform his show at the Riv.
This show needs to be stopped now! We, who have respect for animals are so appalled by the use of big cats in entertainment, and the cruelty of declawing them.
http://lasvegasweekly.com/as-we-see-it/weekly-qa/2014/dec/17/interview-dirk-arthur-magician-big-cats/
