Prague 1 to ban busking inflatable bears

If you’ve taken a stroll through central Prague streets surrounding Old Town and Wenceslas Squares in recent years, you’ve probably come across buskers in giant inflatable suits representing polar bears, teddy bears, and panda bears.

The busking inflatable bears, however, may soon become an endangered species.

It’s purpose is to better define what types of performances fall under the decree. The current busking laws prevent loud performances, such as those using amplifiers or instruments like bagpipes, and the new amendment would limit acts to those with artistic merit.

“The decree should be changed so that busking is really something that is at least a little artistic, not a stupid attraction that only pollutes the public space,” comments Prague 1 Mayor Pavel Čižinský.

Of course, defining what is and isn’t art can be subjective, which Čižinský concedes – – though the Mayor doesn’t forecast that it will prevent the city from adopting a new amendment.

“It will not be easy to define clearly what is and is not art, but I do not doubt that it will happen,” he said.

The push for a new buisking amendment has support with other Prague officials.

“Bears standing in Old Town Square and Na Příkopě street are collecting money, but they do not represent any artistic endeavor,” according to Hana Třeštíková, Prague’s Councilor for Culture.

If passed, Prague’s new busking amendment should theoretically prohibit these types of performances, as well.

Prague officials aren’t the only ones who have taken umbrage with these types of acts. Fellow buskers have also raised objections.

“The relationship with residents, and the fact that people work and live in the locality, should be considered by every artist who goes into a public space.”