CHINA TRAVEL IN STYLE : CULTURAL PERFORMANCE

Acrobatics performance has more than 2000 years history in China. The marvelous acts of juggling, contortionism, chair-stacking, and plate-spinning, receive high marks from both domestic and abroad. The China Acrobatic Troupe, which performs frequently in the Wansheng Theatre, Beijing, has successfully staged in over 80 countries and won many prizes at international festivals overseas. Its landmark show 'The Chinese Soul' was selected by the Chinese Ministry of Culture as the only acrobatic show to be presented for the 50th anniversary of China.

Another famous team, Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe, performs regularly at The Shanghai Grand Theatre (picture left), which also features the country's top ballet, musical and orchestra performances.

Peking Opera is one of the most sophisticated performing art in China. The stylized costuming, acrobatics, music, high-pitched nasal singing and choreography set apart Chinese opera from Western opera. The highly successful show 'The Women Warriors' performs regularly in the Chang'an Theater, Beijing. Also the glamorous 'Prince Gong's Peking Opera' takes place in the splendid palace of the prince.

Chinese Martial Arts are not simply physical movements. The forces behind combine the concepts of fighting art with respect, self-discipline, courtesy and inner strength. The very engaging and skilled Shaolin Monks will sure to impress even the most critical audiences.

Other highly recommended are the The Great Hall of People, the Chinese parliament, with occassional hosting of large scale orchestras. The Shanghai Circus World features an excellcent series of circus shows. The innovative production of 'Nutcracker in Chinese edition' shows regularly at the Chang'an Grand Theatre.