The Chinese State Circus - What You Need to Know

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The Chinese State Circus is currently touring the UK! You may already know this from our social media, or maybe you have seen and heard about it locally if it's heading to your area. You may even have caught the stars with Andi Peters on Good Morning Britain last week!


How much do you actually know about the Chinese State Circus, though? 

We decided to give you a rundown of everything you need to know, in bite-sized chunks!


What is it?


The Chinese State circus is currently touring with a new production - 'Dynasty'. The show brings an art form that has thrilled audiences for more than 2,000 years into a contemporary setting. It tranforms low-tech everyday objects into hi-tech acrobatic equipment. Hurtling porcelain jars...dynamically spinning plates...balancing upon gigantic pyramids of tables and chairs framed by the delicate strands of silk supporting cascading aerialists.



Where does it come from?


China!

That's the short answer. But really, this is a question with two answers...

In modern terms, the Chinese State Circus was an idea started back in the '90s, after directors Carol and Phillip Gandey witnessed a group of Oriental acrobats performing at the Monte Carlo Circus Festival. They were astounded at the quality, depth and sheer diversity of the troupes. The Chinese State Circus was born that day.

Historically, however, Chinese acrobatics is an art form that stretches back for more than 2,000 years, with historical records and ancient carvings displaying the existence of the discipline during the period of the Warring States (475 - 221BC)!


Who are they?


The show is comprised of 30 world-class Chinese acrobats, aerial artistes, and jugglers, who interact with the super-human physical skills and dexterity of the masters of martial arts.

Just some of the acts you can witness during the show are:

The Lion Dance 




The Oriental Swan 


Hat Juggling


The Shaolin Warriors



You can see all of the above at the show, plus much, much more.


Where can I see them?


The show is currently running at Chantry Park in Ipswich, before moving on to Norwich, Orsett, Chingford, Evesham, Birmingham and Shrewsbury. There are more destinations being added all the time though, so be sure to keep an eye on the website.

The list of venues can be found here.




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