Some 15,000 years ago, dogs were the first animals to be domesticated in service to mankind according to researchers. There is genetic evidence that indicates the date might be far earlier, perhaps 100,000 years ago.
On Saturday evening, June 27, in the beautiful Karrh Center on North Green Street, citizens of all ages had the opportunity to see just how far that love and partnership between dog and human reaches in the third live event of the 2026 Showcase Season, Cirque du Canines!
Cirque du Canines brought the dog circus to the stage at the Karrh Center. There were multiple trainers, some 15 dogs, fun music, colorful costumes and lots and lots of dog tricks and stunts. Attendees enjoyed just short of 90 minutes of an entertaining show followed by the opportunity for a meet and greet, photo opportunities, and interaction in the lobby of the Karrh Center. This show was perfect family fun, had an interactive audience and smiles from every stage and age in attendance.
Cirque du Canines is the collaboration of former Ringling touring performer, Gail Mirabella, and longtime trick dog performer, Michelle Harrell, who share a vision for what a dog circus should look and feel like. Gail and Michelle have combined their talents, their dogs and their ideas to create an exciting performance for the stage - “These dogs are our family, our lives and our stars”.
Further, the evening included “Miss Lauren”, (Lauren Frazier), a talented performer regularly featured as a special guest with Cirque du Canines…who happens to also be well known for her chicken act on America’s Got Talent!
In the finale, one of the young attendees sitting in front of me, turned upon seeing Miss Lauren’s dog bound some seven feet into the air over a high bar and into Miss Lauren’s arms, and asked, “Did you see that? She’s so pretty!” My assumption was she was talking about Miss Lauren, though her dog was also quite fetching!
We were also entertained by a barrel race which broke the audience into two teams to cheer on their dogs (I was on Team Trouble if you can imagine, as was my sister Kitty…which requires less imagination!) Audience members that went on stage to help with the evening’s races and paces, and a host of other nuances such as bringing dog snacks/food, supporting the mission of rescue through sales of various items included the dog shaped bolo paddle I bought for my great niece, and donations.
In addition to the show, the audience was reminded of the need to support the local animal shelter. Represented by Shari Watt, the local shelter shared pet toys and gave insights as to what can be done to adopt/rescue animals. Shelter hours are 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday - Friday, and Saturday until noon. It was an amazing and productive exclamation point to what was already a happy lifelong memory!
Please be reminded we are half way through our events in this season’s live event offerings, with the next being the 8th of August which will be the stylings of the Louis Pettinelli Jazz Band. Season tickets can still be purchased for the remainder of the performance season. Contact (478) 419-1308 or stop by the Karrh Center, 107 North Green Street in Swainsboro.
To see current and upcoming movies, live events or to donate, please visit https://karrhcenter.com. Add it to your favorites and links to help support our community arts theater and center. The Young Washington is scheduled for the weekend of July 4th! Happy 250th Independence Day.
“By love serve one another.” Galatians 5:13
