February 05, 2003

Chinese acrobats tumble onto campus

Chinese acrobats have thrilled audiences for more than 2,700 years - and you thought Cats had a long run. The internationally renowned Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats will bring this ancient form of entertainment to the California State University, Sacramento campus at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, Feb. 27 and 28 at the University Union Ballroom.

For centuries, Chinese acrobats, dancers and magicians have entertained at imperial courts and ceremonial carnivals dating back to the Han Dynasty, making it one of the oldest continuing folk traditions in the world. The art of Chinese acrobatics is centered on a philosophy of inner strength and harmony known as Chi Kung and it began with farm families who practiced juggling during their relatively idle winter months.

These families used whatever objects were available in their homes - cups and saucers, plates on rods, tables and chairs - whatever could be tossed, twirled or spun. They even used each other, tossing and stacking one another to form gravity-defying human pyramids, walls and towers. They eventually added elaborate, colorful costumes made of hand-embroidered silk to enhance the spectacle.

The Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats represent the best of this revered tradition, mixing breathtaking acrobatics, traditional dance and dazzling costumes with ancient and contemporary theatrical techniques. Their showmanship has captivated audiences in more than 65 countries around the world.

Tickets are $12 for general admission and $8 for CSUS students and children 12 and younger. Tickets are available at the CSUS Ticket Office at (916) 278-4323 and at www.tickets.com. For media assistance, contact CSUS public affairs at (916) 278-6156.

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