The Chaoyang Theatre in Chaoyang District is close to the centre of the city and has become one of the best acrobatics shows in Beijing. The theatre has become of Beijing’s tourist highlights, even though the theatre is small in comparison with the Chinese National Centre for the Performing Arts, it makes up for it in character. Every night there are two high quality performances.
Acrobatic art is a traditional Chinese performing art that dates back to ancient times. During the Han dynasty acrobatic art developed into grand shows for the Emperors and became a popular form of entertainment.
The show and the stunts
The twice daily show has everything from fire stunts to bicycling to lion dancing to contortion. The show combines modern and traditional acrobatics that bridge the gap between modern and ancient Chinese culture.
The acrobatic show is performed at a fast pace with tumblers, gymnasts, contortionists who carry out the stunts to loud Chinese music and keep the audience entertained without a break to enhance the suspense.
They spin big spindles on spin plates and ropes. There are giant wheels with blindfolded acrobatic juggling and rope skipping on top as the wheels spin around. There are also female dancers in exotic costumes, acrobatic stunts and martial arts choreographers.
The Motorbike Globe is most dangerous stunt in the show and involves a transparent globe in which the motorcyclist’s cycle around inside. As the show goes on more riders enter the globe and cycle around in fast circles, at the climax of the show, six riders circle the globe together.
The Human Pyramid is a group of ladies who cycle in circles on bicycles. As the show progresses more and more ladies join and climb on the bicycles and sit on their shoulders. The show finishes with eleven ladies riding on the bicycle as a human pyramid.
The Chair Tower is a solo acrobat who builds a tower of chairs whilst balancing on the top of them.
The theatre building and seating
Chaoyang Acrobatics Theatre can accommodate 1400 persons and was built in 1984. The traditional shows have been running for nearly 30 years and have entertained 3 million foreign visitors. The theatre has two levels, first floor and second floor, the cheapest tickets are on the second floor. A subway station is situated near the theatre and the Chaoyang area was designated as cultural centre in 2001.
The twice daily shows start at 5.30pm and 7.00pm, cameras are allowed, refreshments and snacks are available at the theatre.
Other attractions nearby
Chaoyang Park is the largest park in Beijing and just 1km from the theatre building. The park features a peaceful lake and an Italian restaurant.
Palm Springs Plaza is a small shopping mall nearby with cafes, clothing shops and a Subway restaurant.
Block 8 is a nightlife area with bars, clubs and restaurants. Located in this area is a nightclub and a sushi restaurant.
