Branson, MO is delighted to share with you the strength and agility of the Acrobats of China. More than two thousand years ago, during the Han Dynasty, the Chinese saw the first acrobats, magicians, and jugglers. Farmers and village craftsman, with little to do over the winter months decided to improve their societal position by becoming acrobats. During the fall the villagers would come together in the village to celebrate a bountiful harvest, a sort of Chinese Thanksgiving. It was here that the common people would show off their skills by performing feats of daring and strength using tools and items found around their farms and homes. Today what you will see is a group of highly skilled, and exceptionally talented performers that have followed an unbroken tradition since 700 B.C.
These talented performers will amaze you with group contortion acts that have them bending and twisting to form living sculptures. Miss Gao, a mere 16-years old, will entertain you will her Aerial Ballet. She is the 1998 gold medal winner in the All-China Acrobatic Competition. She has an extraordinary sense of balance and unparalleled upper body strength which is needed for the one-armed hand stands performed in this act. You will see plate spinning, jar juggling, nose balancing, hoop jumping, pole climbing and much more, all showing acts of balance, strength, and contortion that will leave you scratching your head trying to understand how a human body can achieve those positions. Wait! There's more -- magic! Everyone loves magic and Ms. Hong will lead you into the secret world of magic with her meaningful gestures and mysterious posture. Ms. Hong won second place in the International Brotherhood of Magicians 75the Anniversary Competition in Kansas City with her act entitled "From Doves to Angels."
These talented performers have come to America to share the love of their art with it's people and you will be grateful to see something new and exciting when you come for a visit to Branson. In November of 1999 they were presented with the key to the City of Branson in recognition of its wonderful performance and contribution to the local entertainment industry. Also, in 1999 the Incredible Acrobats of China was elected as the Best Show of the Year in Branson. And, in 1999 The Shanghai Circus was awarded the Branson Peace Award for sharing in America's vision by promoting world peace through cultural arts. With many other awards and recognitions you will be delighted to sit and watch as these young performers share what they have worked so hard to master.
The Incredible Acrobats of China perform from April to December every year and spend the rest of their time in China catching up with family and friends. Before returning for another year of performances here in America they must go through auditions, so that we may witness only the best that China has to offer. So be sure to put this show on your list of things to see while visiting Branson, Mo. You won't regret seeing one of the best and original performances you will have the privilege to see anywhere.
