To say the Chinese State Circus is merely a show is grossly to underestimate it; it is the embodiment of a traditional art form which can trace its history back over 2000 years. The presentation lives and breathes with the enthusiasm of its acrobatic artistes whose whole lives centre in the performance. The result is the purest, honest, most abiding and exhilarating circus that is a true privilege to see.
Chinese acrobatics is a common form of art among the people. It has a long history with a distinct national style, evolving from the Chinese people’s everyday life and work.
Historical records, ancient carvings and decorative patterns on utensils show the origin of Chinese acrobatics more than two thousands years ago in the period of the Warring States. During the Quin and Han Dynasties (221 B.C – 220 A.D.) acrobatic artistes developed a wide repertoire, and acrobatics was thus called “the show of a hundred tricks.” It reached a high level as a performing art by the Han Dynasty .
Acrobatics has played an important role in cultural exchanges between China and other nations. In the past 35 years, Chinese acrobatic troupes have toured more than 100 countries and regions throughout the world. Their excellent performances were warmly welcomed and highly appreciated by the people of various countries.
The Chinese State Circus was an idea started back in the 1990’s after director Phillip Gandey witnessed a group of Oriental acrobats performing to great acclaim at the Monte Carlo Circus Festival. He was astounded at the quality, depth and sheer diversity of such Chinese Acrobatic Troupes. After working out the logistics of transporting 45 artistes, plus directors, interpreters and five tonnes of props half-way around the world – the rest as they say is history!
The Chinese State Circus returns in 2012 with Yin Yang in its UK premiere – an opportunity not to miss!
For 2012, the Chinese State Circus™ is proud to be sponsored by the UK’s leading travel company to China, Wendy Wu Tours, who offer the chance to discover the ‘real China’.
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The circus has toured in the United Kingdom since 1992.
As of April 2011, the circus will be returning to the Gandey Organisation where future continuation of the circus will be decided.
The incomparable Chinese State Circus™ proudly presents their UK premiere ‘Yin Yang’ which begins its tour in January 2012.
The highly awaited return of China’s greatest circus featuring the first UK appearance of the formidable Shaolin Warrior known only as “The One" sourced specifically by Director Phillip Gandey.
This unique extravaganza showcases only the best in entertainment; witness acrobats defying gravity in an array of elaborate, explosive and highly choreographed presentations of power, poise and agility.
‘Yin Yang’ will not only keep the audience on the edge of their seats but show the more delicate and beautiful side of Chinese tradition with the silk aerial act, parasol juggling, eye catching Lion Dance and the amazing legendary ‘Bicycle Act’ in which 10 talented artistes manoeuvre onto a single bicycle.
Witness the unpredictable and exhilarating twists of foot juggling with drums, the famous Chinese poles, the sensational contortionist and the dynamic hoop divers with their amazing somersaults, leaps and jumps which all go towards completing this action packed programme.
Every sensational act flows into sensational act without narrative and accompanied by a captivating and atmospheric all girl group of live musicians.
For 2012, the Chinese State Circus™ is proud to be sponsored by the UK’s leading travel company to China, Wendy Wu Tours, who offer the chance to discover the ‘real China’ with a number of inspiring itineraries. Closer to home, the Chinese State Circus™ brings part of that magic to a venue near you. Suitable for an audience of all ages, with evocative sets, soaring musical score and extravagant new costumes that will entertain the entire family long after the final curtain falls!
Don’t miss this stunning production that features the most daring, breath-taking and thrilling artistes to tour the UK. Take a new look at the world’s greatest circus!
"The most exhilarating circus it has ever been my privilege to see" London Evening Standard.
"Never has such excitement been generated in a theatre...the whole audience hangs breathless!" Manchester Evening News.