Chinese State Circus comes to Brighton Centre

The world-renowned Chinese State Circus returns for a major UK theatre and big top tour in 2016/17.

The Circus embodies a rich tapestry of Chinese art, history and culture which can be dated back over 2000 years.

This cultural legacy is permeated through the exhibition of their artistes’ acrobatic skills, which have been honed and perfected by lifelong dedication to their countries artistic heritage. The resulting circus is a visual spectacular which takes audiences on an exhilarating journey through Chinese culture.

Chinese acrobatics is a common form of art among the people. It has a long history with a distinct national style, evolving from the Chinese people’s everyday life and work. Historical records, show the origin of Chinese acrobatics more than two thousand years ago in the period of the Warring States. During the Quin and Han Dynasties (221 B.C – 220 A.D.) acrobatic artistes developed a wide repertoire, and acrobatics was thus called “the show of a hundred tricks.” It reached a high level as a performing art by the Han Dynasty.

The history of the Chinese State Circus spans 25 years and was first conceived in the mind of Creative Director Phillip Gandey after he witnessed a group of Oriental acrobats performing to great acclaim at the Monte Carlo Circus Festival.

Gandey was astounded at the quality, depth and sheer diversity of such Chinese Acrobatic Troupes. After working out the logistics of transporting 45 artistes, plus directors, interpreters and five tonnes of props half-way around the world – the rest, as they say, is history!

The announcement of this new tour comes 3 years after the last UK Chinese State Circus theatre tour Ying Yang was met with critical acclaim and 5 years since the production has toured under canvas.

The Circus comes to the Brighton Centre for one night only on Saturday, November 5.