“Is that possible?” a tourist wonders. She is standing before Tianqiao Acrobatics Theater. Here, artists defy gravity. They bend in ways you can’t imagine. Welcome to the oldest acrobatic theatre in Beijing. It is home to the most amazing acrobatic shows.
Tianqiao, also called Heaven Bridge, has a rich past. Emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties often visited this area. It became the heart of Beijing acrobatics. Many celebrated acrobats started their careers here. The renowned Beijing Acrobatic Troupe also began here. This troupe has won many international awards.
The Tianqiao Acrobatics Theater continues a special tradition. It presents incredible acrobatic programs all year. For four decades, the Beijing Acrobatic Troupe has been creating top-notch shows. They draw inspiration from traditional Tianqiao acrobatics. They also incorporate elements from other folk arts. These performances have graced important national ceremonies. Party leaders have enjoyed them.
Prepare for a feast for your eyes. The Beijing Acrobatic Troupe is known for weird and fun shows. Expect offbeat contortions and daring tricks. Many acts involve thrilling high-wire performances. The century-old theater provides an intimate setting. You’ll be frighteningly close to the action.
In 1957, the Beijing Acrobatic Troupe was founded in Tianqiao. This district is known as the birthplace of Chinese acrobatics. The troupe trained hard. Until the late 1980s, it performed in the shadow of the New China Troupe. But it started to shine on its own.
The Beijing Acrobatic Troupe is located in Xuanwu District. It has a gymnasium, offices, workshops, and living quarters. Over 150 performers and apprentices train here.
In 1995, the troupe won a Gold Medal at Paris’s Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain. This was for a diabolo act. The next year, they performed at Cirque du Soleil. This began a long relationship with the Canadian circus. The troupe has won many awards in Chinese acrobatic competitions. In 2007, they won first prize at Moscow’s International Circus Arts Festival. This was for their Chinese Pole act. It was also featured at Circus Krone in Munich in 2011.
Don’t miss this soul-stirring place. The Tianqiao Acrobatics Theater is a must-see. It preserves the essence of Chinese acrobatics. The amazing programs will leave you breathless.