The bizarre footage shows a bear trying to climb out of its cage during a circus performance as terrified spectators stand up from their seats in a bid to make a run for it.

Footage captured at the Chengnan Temple Fair circus in the city of Dongying. In China’s eastern province of Shandong, depicted the animal and its trainer showcasing their act on stage on February 10th.

But shortly after the performance began, the bear approached the metal cage and began climbing it, prompting fearful reactions from the spectators.

As the audience began rising from their seats and leaving, the trainer managed to seize the bear and pull it back into the cage.

Chinese media revealed that nobody was injured during the incident.

The following day, circus authorities stated that the bear. Believed to be experiencing stress from the extensive long-distance journey, had been confined within its cage.

They added that all performances involving wild animals have been called off.