Starr Brothers Circus will perform June 26 to benefit Haines Animal Rescue Kennel, a fledgling Haines non-profit group.

The show features performing animals, acrobats, jugglers and a man who shoots flames out of his mouth across the circus ring, said circus staffer Judy Kaye. "It’s a circus that’s very entertaining."

The show includes performers from Russia, Sweden, Argentina, Italy, the United States and Canada. "It’s kind of the league of nations. Most people speak at least two languages," Kaye said.

The show’s troupe of Italian bare-back riders are sixth-generation circus performers, Kaye said. Three young Russian gymnasts perform balancing stunts. "We have a very unique act with jump ropes, with people (stacked) three-high," Kaye said.

Animal acts include dancing and high-diving dogs, as well as performing ponies.

The troupe coming to Haines is different than the one that visited two years ago, Kaye said. This year’s troupe is in its first year of touring and is based in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

"We get 50 percent of all pre-sold ticket (sales) and 10 percent of sales the day of the show," said Milinda May, spokeperson for the local animal rescue group. "I’d like to at least make $2,000."

"I’m all for them making some money," Kaye said. "Every child should grow up with (animals)," she said.

The money will go toward operating costs and building a shelter, May said.

Starr Brothers brought their act to town two years ago. "I liked it," May said. "It was entertaining. It was enjoyable entertainment for the family," she said.

Tickets are on sale this week at the bookstore, Haines Cable TV and 33 Mile Roadhouse. Tickets are $10 pre-sold, and $18 at the door. Free youth tickets are available around town, and admission for kids under 14 is $8 at the door.