The Experience
All those physics lessons in high school might have been wasted in explaining how an acrobat can teeter on a chair, with the bottom edge precariously balanced on the back of another, when you witness a Beijing acrobatic show. And so the chairs continue, forming a staircase that seems in imminent collapse. Meanwhile, the acrobat balanced on top pirouettes on her feet, while another acrobat clambers over the chairs and leaps to the top of the pile. Props such as Chinese plates and bamboo poles might come out at this point. Though the trappings of Chinese acrobatics are different from Western ones, seeing a Beijing acrobatic show when you visit China will inspire the same awe in the human body.
Chinese acrobats are part of a 2000-year-old tradition, which was well developed by the Tang Dynasty. Since acrobats often performed in the streets, simple everyday props were often used, including chairs, tables, cups, plates and wicker rings. This remains true today.
The other ubiquitous symbol of China, the bicycle, is also used in almost every major acrobatic show in Beijing. Great spirals of tens of bicycles join together in choreographed movements, while the acrobats control the bike with only one hand, with their feet are up in the air performing a dance. Or perhaps you may find twenty acrobats mounted on one bike more impressive. There are also the more familiar feats at an acrobatic show in Beijing, such as swallowing swords and fire - which despite their familiarity, never become mundane.
Since acrobatics have such a long history in China, every major city has performances sometime throughout the year. Beijing hosts various shows year-round, with some shows combining acrobatics and kung-fu, and others just focusing on one or the other. The best Beijing acrobatic shows are hosted at the Chaoyang Theater and the Universal Theater. Prices range from 180 to 480 Yuan (approx. $30 - $80), but can be bought at discounted prices from tour operators. The more expensive Beijing acrobatic show tickets usually include complimentary CDs and pamphlets. Shows are hosted nightly from 7:15 PM.
For those on a budget, less famous venues have cheaper tickets for acrobatic shows in Beijing. Chinese acrobatics are a visual spectacle, a tribute to China's history, and a challenge to the human body. Take an evening out, and enjoy the show.
Chinese acrobats are part of a 2000-year-old tradition, which was well developed by the Tang Dynasty. Since acrobats often performed in the streets, simple everyday props were often used, including chairs, tables, cups, plates and wicker rings. This remains true today.
The other ubiquitous symbol of China, the bicycle, is also used in almost every major acrobatic show in Beijing. Great spirals of tens of bicycles join together in choreographed movements, while the acrobats control the bike with only one hand, with their feet are up in the air performing a dance. Or perhaps you may find twenty acrobats mounted on one bike more impressive. There are also the more familiar feats at an acrobatic show in Beijing, such as swallowing swords and fire - which despite their familiarity, never become mundane.
Since acrobatics have such a long history in China, every major city has performances sometime throughout the year. Beijing hosts various shows year-round, with some shows combining acrobatics and kung-fu, and others just focusing on one or the other. The best Beijing acrobatic shows are hosted at the Chaoyang Theater and the Universal Theater. Prices range from 180 to 480 Yuan (approx. $30 - $80), but can be bought at discounted prices from tour operators. The more expensive Beijing acrobatic show tickets usually include complimentary CDs and pamphlets. Shows are hosted nightly from 7:15 PM.
For those on a budget, less famous venues have cheaper tickets for acrobatic shows in Beijing. Chinese acrobatics are a visual spectacle, a tribute to China's history, and a challenge to the human body. Take an evening out, and enjoy the show.
When to Go to Beijing Acrobatic Show
When you travel to China you will find that there are many things to do in Beijing. But the great thing about a Beijing acrobatic show is that they are held nightly, so anytime of year is fine. If you arrive during peak tourist season, it might be wise to secure the tickets ahead of time for better seats.
Odds n' Ends
Check with your hotel or tour operator about any shows they might be affiliated with. It's possible the fees they charge will be less expensive. However, make sure that it's the show you want to see, and be sure to ask about the seats!
Places to Stay Nearby
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