Southern Region News September 27, 2006 16:16 PM Circus Academy May Be Set Up At Danga Bay Alexi Panarin of The Royal London Circus performing his magic act . Pix: Zid Omar JOHOR BAHARU, Sept 27 (Bernama) -- A circus academy where Malaysians can learn the necessary skills to succeed as performing artistes, may be set up at Danga Bay here. Talks between the management of Danga Bay, an integrated resort area, and the Royal London Circus are underway with a view of putting up a permanent building where the finer points of circus performing can be taught to aspiring Malaysians. "With the expertise of the Royal London Circus' management team and in line with Danga Bay's vision of turning the area into an entertainment hub, we believe a circus academy is the right way forward. "We are in serious discussion with the owner of the Royal London Circus on how best to go ahead with the idea," said Kamarul Ariffin Suleiman, a director of Danga Bay, Wednesday. The Royal London Circus which has been in business for 22 years, is a Malaysian outfit, owned and managed by Paul Lee. At a press conference today to announce that the Royal London Circus will be performing at Danga Bay starting on Oct 3, Lee said the academy, if set up, would provide many Malaysian youths, especially those talented ones, with a chance to earn a decent living. "I am sure there are many young Malaysians who are interested in becoming circus performers. "And a circus academy is the perfect answer. They can learn to become trapeze artistes, animal trainers, clowns, acrobats and dancers. "Also there is avenue for those who want to learn how to choreograph shows and design costumes which are all related to the circus," he said. According to the Klang-born Lee, there are circus academies in Russia and China but none elsewhere. "If we set up one here, we can cater to the entire Southeast Asian region. And believe me there will be no problem attracting students if we keep the fees affordable." Lee said he had the contacts where he could bring in good people to teach and impart the skills required of a performing artiste. He also announced that part of the proceeds from the opening night show would be donated to two Chinese schools here -- Sekolah Thor Burn and Sekolah Chee Tong. "It's our practice of giving to charity on our opening night wherever we perform, and I think we have given away at least RM3 million to charitable bodies in the past years," said Lee. -- BERNAMA