Show Goes On for Ben Hur Amid Protests???

Tonight’s world premiere of the epic Ben Hur Live at the o2 Arena, which has reportedly been 15 years in the making, has attracted its fair share of controversy.

According to today’s Evening Standard, the performance will be the subject of protestors from PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), angry at the use of animals in the show.

Publicity for Ben Hur Live promises: “Breakneck chariot races and scenes of an antique naval battle alternated with appearances by gladiators, the performance of orgiastic festivals and vivid Arabian market life. 400 performers, 100 animals, horses and free flying birds of prey, huge backdrops and galleys with expanded sails create the perfect illusion.”

The centrepiece of the show is a recreation of the famous chariot race sequence, thought to be the first time such an event has ever been staged indoors.

Peta Europe’s Poorva Joshipura said: “The actors involved in Ben Hur Live have chosen to participate, but the horses, vulnerable birds and other animals used as living props are forced into this rock concert–like environment that is terrifying for them.

“The use of animals in entertainment belongs in history books, not at the O2 arena in the 21st century after we have learned so much about animals’ needs, interests and behaviour.”

A statement on the show’s website reads: “There is a variety of animals involved in Ben Hur Live. As well as the horses, there are current plans to include camels, birds of prey, donkeys and goats. Like the human actors we consider these animals as performers in the show – they are part of the action and enrich the event.”

“For us as a producers this brings a great responsibility: the proper care and protection of the animals is of the utmost priority, appropriate to each individual animal and its integrity. We demand respectful and caring treatment of animals from everybody involved in this production and we guarantee species-appropriate care arrangements.”

Following its performances at the o2, which finish on Sunday (20 September), Ben Hur Live, which is produced by German Franz Abraham, goes on a 14-stop European tour.