The two surviving circuses in Norway, Arnardo and Agora, fear the industry’s existence. On Wednesday they will meet parliament asking
for better economic conditions.
Are Arnardo, and Jan Ketil Smørdal, the directors of Circus Arnardo and Circus Agora, will meet with parliamentary representative, Silje
Hjemdal of Fremskrittsparti (Frp) on Wednesday.
The two circuses both struggle economically and are the last surviving circuses in Norway. Merano and Zorba have had to shut down their operations due to lack of revenue.
“It is positive that we can finally agree on the challenges we are facing today, and we are pleased that Silje Hjemdal has agreed to meet us” said Arnardo.
Smørdal agrees and emphasized that traditional circus is in danger of disappearing.
‘’I greatly appreciate that Arnardo and Agora have come together to face the challenges that Norwegian circus experience. Solutions are urgently needed. Traditional circus is the only art form that does not receive any kind of public support in Norway, and we believe our requests are very modest’’ said Smørdal.
During the meeting at parliament, they will mainly ask for relief on taxes in order to improve the situation in the short term.
They drew up challenges such as increased costs for tolls and ferries, increased fuel costs, and long processing time for artists and workers
by the UDI.
© NTB Scanpix / #Norway Today
