Chinese circus is set to swing into action to thrill us

THE Chinese State Circus will be returning to Southport after a break of three years with a spectacular new production – Dynasty.

Breathtaking in its simplicity, Dynasty projects into a contemporary setting an art form that has thrilled audiences for more than 2,000 years where everyday objects are transformed into acrobatic equipment.

The features artistes hurtling porcelain jars, dynamically spinning plates, balancing on gigantic pyramids of tables and chairs framed by delicate strands of silk supporting cascading aerialists.

Stunning Chinese acrobats, aerial artistes and jugglers interact with the superhuman physical skills and dexterity of the masters of martial arts – the famed Shaolin Warriors.

The nonstop action from start to finale as thrill follows thrill is set to a soaring musical score accompanied by the rhythmic beats of Chinese percussion.

It is an outstanding acrobatic achievement that could until now could only be created on video through special effects – yet performed live in front of an audience what seems impossible becomes a reality.

It is what has earned the Chinese State Circus the accolade “incomparable”.

“In our latest production we have returned to the pure and honest perfection in acrobatics upon which our reputation is based,” said creative director Phillip Gandey, who became the first circus director in Europe to obtain permission from the Chinese cultural authorities to be allowed to tour a Big Top production of his own creation performed entirely by Chinese acrobats.

“We have the world class artistes capable of performing the excellence required.

“In Dynasty we have created a show with no gimmicks, no fakes, no retakes, quite simply – the incomparable Chinese State Circus.”

The show will be at Southport Theatre & Convention Centre on Wednesday, September 21.

For details, go to website www.atgtickets.com or ring the box office on 0844 8713021.