Chinese acrobatics date back centuries. It's an art form that focuses on challenging physical limitations. Many Chinese view acrobatics as the quintessential expression of China's strength and power as a nation. Anyone seeking an adrenalin rush, can find it by attending a performance of Chinese acrobatics.
Acrobatics is an option to experience Chinese culture while you are in Beijing.
At Chaoyang Theatre, the stage is transformed into a daredevil's wonderland. Death-defying acrobatic maneuvers are woven together in a story about ancient times. The show called "Flying" recalls the worship of flying birds and the Sun God.
One impressive program involves bold moves performed on steel rings suspended at the front of the stage. Two actors jog inside the rings and then hop on the apex to juggle - or even take a walk while blindfolded. The actors perform without protection. There are no safety lines.
While you are in town, you may also want to check this out. At the Poly theatre for 50 consecutive shows is "Splendid" from China's Acrobatic Troupe -- the oldest troupe in the country.
The two-hour performance includes 13 programs and 13 stunts. Performers climbing high poles and leap from pole to pole to the beat of drums. They can spin three plates at a time on slender poles, somersault on wires, and do various balancing maneuvers.
The dashing costumes, dazzling lights and stage props magnify the acrobatic tradition in China. There's no sign of tension. The 80 performers go through the performance with beaming smiles. They've trained for years for their moment in the spotlight.
80 of the company's prize-winning acrobats, jugglers and contortionists, take part in the show. Some are still in their teens. Splendid represents the acme of Chinese acrobatics in each of the stunts featured.
Acrobatic shows run every night at five Beijing theatres throughout the Olympic Games.
Flying Shows
CHAOYANG THEATRE
ADDRESS: NO.26 NORTH ROAD OF EAST THIRD RING ROAD, CHAOYANG DISTRICT;

TICKET HOTLINE: 51664511; 51664611

TIANDI ACROBATIC THEATRE
ADDRESS: NO.10 SOUTH STREET, DONGZHIMEN,
TICKET HOTLINE:64169893

Kungfu Show
HONG THEATRE
ADDRESS: NO.44 XINGFU STREET,
TICKET HOTLINE: 51233866

BEIJING ACROBATIC TROUPE SHOW
WANSHENG THEATRE
ADDRESS: NO.1 BEIWEI ROAD, XUANWU DISTRICT
TICKET HOTLINE:51297260