Cassandra Stone, a much-loved South African transgender circus and drag star who performed internationally, has passed away. Stone, 44, died from complications related to meningitis.
She was well known for her skilled circus acts and her drag performances at gay clubs around the country. She often performed with pythons and, at one point, alligators.
Stone was a gymnast throughout high school and started her circus career through Brian Circus in 1995. She went on to perform at Boswell Wilkie Circus, Gold Reef City, Sun City and, from 2005, at McLaren Circus, as well as in several productions overseas and at numerous events and shows.