Dancer Caught in Flames During Performance at Nantong Forest Safari Park

A live performance at the Nantong Forest Safari Park near Shanghai, China, turned alarming when a dancer was engulfed in flames during a fire dance, a traditional Chinese folk art. The incident occurred last Wednesday, as captured in a video shared by Shanghai Daily. The dancer's red dress caught fire shortly after she began her routine, which involved performing between two lit hoops.

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The performance took a dangerous turn when the flames quickly spread up the dancer's dress. After only two rotations, the performer, visibly panicked, sprinted towards a nearby river in an attempt to extinguish the flames. She reached the water approximately 11 seconds after her dress ignited. Fortunately, zoo officials later reported that the dancer did not sustain serious injuries.

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Officials from the Nantong Forest Safari Park, which houses nearly 20,000 animals across more than 300 species, confirmed the incident but have not provided details on whether the fire dance segment will be reinstated in future performances.

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While the zoo has not faced immediate backlash, the incident raises concerns regarding safety protocols during performances involving fire. Critics may question the adequacy of safety measures in place for performers, particularly in environments where live animals are present.

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• “A dancer was engulfed in flames during a performance at a zoo show in Shanghai, China.” — Shanghai Daily

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• “Officials at the zoo, home to almost 20,000 animals and more than 300 species, said the dancer wasn’t seriously injured.” — Nantong Forest Safari Park

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Following the incident, it remains to be seen whether the Nantong Forest Safari Park will review its safety protocols for performances involving fire. The decision on the future of the fire dance segment is also pending, as officials assess the situation and potential risks involved.

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