Going wild

Horses and bears will dance on the stage and death-defying acrobats will soar in the air. Then they will send in the clowns. One of the oldest circuses in Russia the Nikulin Circus, has been delighting locals this week at the Beijing Workers' Stadium and tonight is the last night.

"America and Russia dominated the early history of circus," says Slava Lashvkin, head of the circus. "The former adopted the classic Las Vegas style. To create a dreamlike show, they used an innovative stage with creative light effects and set designs and high-tech props.

"But the Russians have always relied on skill and strength. Solid training and well-trained animals are key to our shows. "