Theater Preview: Chinese Acrobatics Will Amaze At “Cirque Zíva”

Chinese Lion Dance

The performers transform into a fierce lion during the traditional Chinese Lion Dance, which actually mimics the movement of a dragon. The dance is famously performed during the Chinese New Year and at various other religious events and celebrations.

The "Glass Pagoda"

A contortionist carefully balances a set of more than 60 wine glasses in an act known as the “Glass Pagoda.” This type of act originated in the People’s Republic of China, and was the first type of Chinese act to be entered at an international circus festival, which it went on to win.

The Diablo

In the Diablo act, acrobats gracefully juggle the Diablo--a prop made from an axle and two cups. The Diablo originated from the traditional Chinese yo-yo created during the12th century.

Spinning Rings

Acrobats showcase strength, balance, and agility during the colorful spinning ring act. This particular act is a form of gymnastics that originated and remains in Germany, known as the "German Wheel." The wheels in the photo are referred to as “Rhönrad.”

Plate Spinning

A thousand hands can be seen balancing and spinning plates on tall poles, as the Golden Dragon Acrobats synchronize their movements.This form of plate-spinning is a traditional Chinese specialty that was exported to the west by European circus troupes in the 19th century.

Contortionists

Three contortionists flex every part of their bodies and work together to form a breathtaking image of a human rectangle in the Group Contortion act. Contortion, which requires incredible strength and flexibility, is one of the oldest forms of acrobatics in China.

Tower of Chairs

A member of the Golden Dragon Acrobats carefully balances on a 30-ft high Tower of Chairs. The traditional skill of chair acrobatics can be traced back more than 2,000 years ago, all the way to the Han Dynasty.

Bicycle Family Act

The Golden Dragon Acrobats blaze onto the New Victory stage, performing their Bicycle Family act. Cycling acrobatics were originally imported from Europe in the early 19th century, and are one of the rare additions to the tradition of Chinese acrobatics.