The art of Mongolian circus in danger

Mongolia is famous for its circus artists. The artists are in performances across the world. This is their training centre. But it's 100 years old. It isn't safe. What will happen to circuses and artists?

It's hard to practise in other places. There isn't enough space.

A centre opened in 2007. But it's private. Now, circus artists can't use it. The government wanted to make a new centre. But after years, it's still building it.

Gerelbaatar Yunden was a circus director. He knows artists need a new school.

Gerelbaatar Yunden: "Once we build the proper circus school facility, it will succeed, and it will be on track to rise again. The government can expect results and success from us. The school facility is not just a fundamental element of reviving the circus - it is also important to correct the long-lost system. Until then, we're going to keep up our spirits and keep fighting."

For now, the school rents a place. That place is far from the city. Students travel by train. And there's little space at the centre.

Bayarchimeg's a student there.

Bayarchimeg Erdenebayar: "Here, everything is complicated and there are a lot of problems. Circus is the art of space, but space is very limited here. It's also difficult to practise in groups. This is what new students also say. We can't practise everything we want to because of the limited space."

The country's contortionists are very famous. Contortionists can move their bodies in special ways.

Now, there are private schools everywhere. Parents are happy to send their children there. Most of Mongolia's contortionists now live abroad.

For one teacher, the government needs to help artists.

Bud Tumurbaatar: "Our own state ignores its talented artists, who deserve more recognition. That's why Mongolian artists are leaving Mongolia for other countries for better treatment and a better income. Basically, our artists are in the hands of foreigners now."

View Less