Joel Slaven's Professional Animals

The Lyric Theatre and the Treasure Coast Humane Society have partnered together to present the talents of Joel Slaven, one of the most talented animal trainers in the industry and his astounding troupe of professional performing animals.  Mr. Slaven is no stranger to the Lyric, after his many appearances here alongside Jack Hanna.  

A luminary in his own right, Slaven’s impressive resume includes head animal trainer for Cypress Gardens, “Disney’s Mickey Mouse Club,” and even Hollywood, as animal trainer for the “Ace Ventura” series. Joel’s 40 year career working with animals began at the Columbus Zoo, raising exotic wildlife for celebrated zookeeper and television personality Jack Hanna. From there, Joel forged his own path, working as head animal trainer and show producer for parks and entertainment venues across the country.  

Slaven’s work with exotic animals extends beyond training and producing entertainment shows. In 1997, Joel established Joel Slaven’s Professional Animals, Inc. which not only serves as the largest producer of domestic animal shows in the world, but also works to rescue hundreds of cats and dogs, rats, ducks, pigeons and other exotic animals from shelters throughout the United States. Joel Slaven’s Professional Animals, Inc. provides domestic and exotic animals for SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and the Columbus Zoo. Joel’s personal dedication to conservation education and animal rescue ensures that his shows are not only safe for the audience and animals, but also wildly entertaining and educational.  

When Joel Slaven and his Professional Animals take the stage this November it will be a family friendly extravaganza you won’t soon forget!

Thank you for supporting The Lyric Theatre, see you at the show!