Circus Roncalli, a renowned circus based in Germany, has taken a unique approach to modernize its performances. Instead of using live animal performers, the circus has turned to cutting-edge hologram technology. In collaboration with a German firm, Circus Roncalli has created lifelike holograms of animals such as elephants and horses to accompany their acrobats, clowns, and dancers in their shows.
The holograms are crafted using 3D animation, photography, and virtual rendering techniques, and are projected into the ring using 11 cameras. Circus Roncalli’s decision to switch to hologram animals stems from concerns about the appropriate treatment of real animals in captivity. The circus faces challenges such as the lack of space for outdoor animal enclosures and the constant need to relocate its performances. By utilizing hologram technology, Circus Roncalli not only addresses these challenges but also introduces an innovative way to captivate and thrill the audience.
The use of hologram animals is not limited to Circus Roncalli. L’Écocirque, a French circus, has also embraced this technology by featuring projections of lions, elephants, and beluga whales. These developments align with the advocacy of animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta), which encourages the elimination of animal performers in circuses. Peta urges circuses to transition to animal-free shows that highlight the skills of human performers.
In addition to holograms, robotics have also made their mark in the realm of animal performances. Peta India recently gifted a temple in Kerala with a mechanized elephant named Irinjadappilly Raman. This robotic elephant will conduct ceremonies in a safe and cruelty-free manner, addressing concerns about the poor treatment and suffering endured by real elephants in captivity.
While the use of holograms and robots offers creative alternatives for animal performances, other sectors are also exploring technological advancements to replace animal testing. One company, SmarterX, has utilized artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to calculate the toxicity of products, eliminating the need for animal testing. By developing computational models, SmarterX can determine the level of toxicity in cosmetics and medicine without subjecting animals to harmful experiments.
Similarly, VeriSim Life has created digital twins of the human body and various animals. With the help of machine intelligence, VeriSim Life aims to observe the impact of pharmaceutical products on these digital representations, reducing the reliance on animal testing during clinical trials.
These advancements highlight the crucial role technology plays in promoting animal welfare and progressive approaches to entertainment and scientific research. As concerns surrounding the treatment of animals continue to grow, the implementation of holograms, robotics, and AI-based alternatives may pave the way for a future that prioritizes compassion and ethical practices.
