Circus Shonkhoodoi

Shonkhoodoi – Snub Nose is the name of the circus school founded by Tomroo and his wife in Darkhan, Mongolia’s second-largest city. As artists themselves, they created a safe space for underprivileged and street children, providing them with the skills they need to build a livelihood. Just as important as the training is the sense of acceptance and solidarity the young artists experience. For many, the school serves as an alternative family, which is why its strict rules are embraced: to participate, children must also attend a special primary school to learn how to read and write.

Despite the circus school’s reputation—gaining recognition even beyond Mongolia and winning multiple prizes and awards—funding remains its greatest challenge. The programme relies entirely on private donors, leaving its future uncertain.