The 41st Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo will give a special place to animals by inviting two great families to perform: the Zapachny family from Russia and the Frank-Kröplin family from Germany, two teams of circus professionals who closely observe the strict conditions required by the Festival for the presentation of animals in the big top and for their care outside the ring.

Very early on, the Founder of the Festival, Prince Rainier III, asked that the bond and tenderness that exists between the trainers and their animals be highlighted, as well as respect for good conditions out of the ring. Abiding by these rules, and mindful of the constant wellbeing of their animals, these two legendary families will appear in the Fontvieille ring.

Askold and Edgar Zapachny, directors of the great Moscow State Circus and representing the third generation of a circus dynasty, are award-winners at many festivals and true stars in their own country. The audience at the festival will be delighted as the Zapachny brothers will present their fabulous mixed big cats act with 14 tigers and lions for the first time outside Russia.

Erwin Frankello from the Frank dynasty will present two acts with elephants and sea lions. The elephants listen closely to their trainer in a very gentle yet incredibly modern act. The South American sea lions will leave the audience with a wonderful memory as they are so mischievous and unpredictable. Both of these acts are characterised by a powerful dialogue between the trainer and his pupils: strong bonding, tenderness and play are at the heart of these acts that are based on mutual respect. They provide an example for us all, the Circus Festival organisers say. (Photo: ©torange.biz)