PETA Urges Hong Kong to Reject Government-Backed Cavalluna Show Over Animal Cruelty Claims
HKFP · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Animal welfare organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals Asia (PETA) is urging Hong Kong residents to boycott the equestrian theatrical show Cavalluna at Kai Tak Arena, citing documented evidence of animal cruelty. The show, which debuted on Tuesday and runs through Sunday, is hosted by the Hong Kong Jockey Club as its main partner . PETA Germany's investigation, which includes whistleblower video footage, has been submitted to Berlin prosecutors as part of a criminal complaint .
Key Points
- The Hong Kong Jockey Club serves as the main host and event partner for Cavalluna – Gate to the Otherworld at Kai Tak Arena
- The European show features 54 horses performing stunts, dancing, and large-scale theatrical routines
- PETA Germany released video clips in 2025 showing horses forced into the painful "rollkur" head-and-neck position
- Footage documented horses experiencing painful overstretching and performing tricks involving fire and light effects
- A PETA Asia spokesperson stated horses are "sensitive, intelligent animals who feel fear and pain—not entertainment props"
Why It Matters
The controversy highlights tensions between entertainment spectacle and animal welfare standards in Hong Kong, where the government-backed venue and a prominent charitable organization are associated with an event facing animal cruelty allegations. The outcome could influence future decisions about animal-based entertainment at major public venues in the city .
The controversy highlights tensions between entertainment spectacle and animal welfare standards in Hong Kong, where the government-backed venue and a prominent charitable organization are associated with an event facing animal cruelty allegations. The outcome could influence future decisions about animal-based entertainment at major public venues in the city .