For Insite On Student Travel by Randy Mink
From theater shows to go-karts, Branson, Missouri, offers student group planners a wealth of itinerary ideas. Here is just a sampling of student-friendly attractions in this Ozarks vacation favorite:
Acrobats of China
Student groups at the New Shanghai Theatre get a taste of Chinese culture in addition to seeing amazing feats of precision, strength and teamwork on stage. The young acrobats from the New Shanghai Circus (ages 14-24) sign autographs in the lobby after the show, and arrangements can be made for them to meet with students for a question-and-answer session, says Susan Weimar, director of sales.
Prior to the performance, there is a short film on Shanghai. Exhibits in the lobby, such as replicas of the terra cotta warriors, add another dimension. The theater also can provide teachers with a China curriculum guide and study sheets prior to the visit.
Student performance groups may take the stage at the New Shanghai Theatre. From March to June, there’s a band or choral group prior to almost every Acrobat of China weekend show, Weimar said. Most of these opportunities are arranged through Branson on Stage Live, which offers a clinic or workshop as well.
Contact: Susan Weimar, 877-212-4462, susan@acrobatsofchina.com; acrobatsofchina.com.
Read the rest of the story here: http://insite.studenttraveldirectory.com/tag/branson-attractions-dazzle-student-travel-groups
Monday, November 29, 2010
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Acrobats of China in Branson maintain thrill
By Joshua Clark, Branson Tri-Lakes Newspaper Entertainment Editor
(Branson, MO) In my continuing efforts to provide all my loyal reader(s) with as many show reviews as possible, I went to check out the Acrobats of China — performed by the New Shanghai Circus.
Boasting one of the largest casts in Branson with more than 40 acrobats showcasing a revolving lineup of internationally award-winning physical performance artists, this has always been one of the most entertaining shows in the area, and I’m glad to say, it is still as good as ever.
First of all, there so many jaw-dropping moments that it is impossible to nail them all down, but the acrobats performing on balancing chairs, stacked more than 20 feet high, the contortionist with the candelabras and a slew of acrobats jumping through the hoop rings, were all tops on my list. There aren’t many other places in the United States where you get to see something as amazing as those feats.
I also enjoyed the magic clock trick, which was one of the more surprising aspects of the show. I thought I knew exactly what would happen at the end of that illusion, but once it was complete, I found myself feeling like a little kid, full of awe and wonder.
The aerial ballet was also quite impressive, but then again just about every aspect of the show is top notch. There is even some comedy, as the second half of the show opens with a Chinese pantomime skit which had everyone in stitches when it was over.
As I watched the show, the one word that kept coming to mind as I watched this two-hour assault on the senses was “ridiculous.” There were feats of strength and talent that shocked and surprised me to the point where all I could do was shake my head and think to myself, “Well that is just ridiculous.” I don’t know if I can give a higher compliment than that.
While this show has almost nothing people would expect from a traditional Branson show, including live music, singers, dancers and the “Orange Blossom Special,” it is perfect for the area in that it truly offers something for everyone. I got the chance to speak to several of the acrobats before the show, and I discovered they work on their skills nearly 70 hours a week. That type of work ethic not only shows the pride they have in their work, but the heritage and history of their country, as well.
This is a great show, not only for the entertainment value, but for the exposure to a culture that continues to grow and flourish each and ever year, the way it has for thousands and thousands of years before. Give it a look. You’ll have a great time.
(Branson, MO) In my continuing efforts to provide all my loyal reader(s) with as many show reviews as possible, I went to check out the Acrobats of China — performed by the New Shanghai Circus.
Boasting one of the largest casts in Branson with more than 40 acrobats showcasing a revolving lineup of internationally award-winning physical performance artists, this has always been one of the most entertaining shows in the area, and I’m glad to say, it is still as good as ever.
First of all, there so many jaw-dropping moments that it is impossible to nail them all down, but the acrobats performing on balancing chairs, stacked more than 20 feet high, the contortionist with the candelabras and a slew of acrobats jumping through the hoop rings, were all tops on my list. There aren’t many other places in the United States where you get to see something as amazing as those feats.
I also enjoyed the magic clock trick, which was one of the more surprising aspects of the show. I thought I knew exactly what would happen at the end of that illusion, but once it was complete, I found myself feeling like a little kid, full of awe and wonder.
The aerial ballet was also quite impressive, but then again just about every aspect of the show is top notch. There is even some comedy, as the second half of the show opens with a Chinese pantomime skit which had everyone in stitches when it was over.
As I watched the show, the one word that kept coming to mind as I watched this two-hour assault on the senses was “ridiculous.” There were feats of strength and talent that shocked and surprised me to the point where all I could do was shake my head and think to myself, “Well that is just ridiculous.” I don’t know if I can give a higher compliment than that.
While this show has almost nothing people would expect from a traditional Branson show, including live music, singers, dancers and the “Orange Blossom Special,” it is perfect for the area in that it truly offers something for everyone. I got the chance to speak to several of the acrobats before the show, and I discovered they work on their skills nearly 70 hours a week. That type of work ethic not only shows the pride they have in their work, but the heritage and history of their country, as well.
This is a great show, not only for the entertainment value, but for the exposure to a culture that continues to grow and flourish each and ever year, the way it has for thousands and thousands of years before. Give it a look. You’ll have a great time.
Review by Julie Sedenko Davis - a freelance writer and author of Tourist Town Guide to Branson coming in 2011
Many compare this show to Las Vegas' "Cirque du Soleil". It is filled with jaw dropping, "do not try this at home" stunts and contortion acts that can leave a person sore just by watching. Each segment opens with narration about various aspects of Chinese culture. Demonstrations include fast-moving performances like the "hoop-divers" whose precision and talent are truly astonishing. There are also several acts which require audience patience as performers set up and take down intricate maneuvers. The background music is Chinese and some American audiences may find it to be a little tiring. The Acrobats of China is an excellent choice for those looking for something different from Branson's country music fare.
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