This undated image released by The Publicity Office shows a scene from the Cirque du Soleil production, “TORUK – The First Flight.” The Canadian-based circus company Cirque du Soleil is canceling upcoming stops in North Carolina by two of its touring shows to protest a state law that limits anti-discrimination protections for the LGBT community. Errisson Lawrence/The Publicity Office via AP

Cirque du Soleil will snub North Carolina after state law

NEW YORK, N.Y. – The Canadian-based circus company Cirque du Soleil is cancelling upcoming stops in North Carolina by two of its touring shows to protest a state law that limits anti-discrimination protections for the LGBT community.

The company said Friday that it will scrap plans for "Ovo" to play Greensboro from April 20-24 and Charlotte from July 6-10, and "Toruk — The First Flight," which was scheduled to play Raleigh from June 22-26.

The company said in a statement that it "strongly believes in diversity and equality for every individual and is opposed to discrimination in any form."

Other artists who have recently cancelled North Carolina appearances include Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr and Ani DiFranco. Cyndi Lauper and Louis C.K. have pledged to donate profits from their shows to Equality North Carolina.

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Howard Alexander

Assistant Editor Howard Alexander comes to iNFOnews.ca from the broadcasting side of the media business.

Howard has been a reporter, news anchor, talk show host and news director, first in Saskatchewan and then the Okanagan.

He moved his family to Vernon in the 90s and is proud to call the Okanagan home.

If you have an event to share contact Howard at 250-309-5343or email halexander@infonews.ca.

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