New Shanghai Circus Dazzles!

by Linda Burligame, Shepherd of the Hills Gazette

The performers in the New Shanghai Circus are truly amazing. Since they were very, very young they have been training and practicing. They continually work and practice to maintain their level of excellence. Amazing feats of contortion, flexibility, timing and balance, “mystical music and magic” — I never know what fascinates me the most.

Contortion is one of the oldest forms of acrobatics. On stage the acrobats bend and twist to form living sculptures. Looks can be deceiving: they are so graceful you forget what strength and skill is required. Foot Juggling, Nose Balancing, Plate Spinning (done while dancing, doing somersaults and handstands!), Pole Climbing, Jar Juggling (huge pots!), Barrel Contortion (getting the body bent and into a barrel with a 12-inch opening!), Aerial Ballet, Round-table Skating (how do they do that!), Magic and Illusion … and some people think I use too many exclamation points. The Acrobats of China deserve many!!

Read the rest of the story here:
http://www.shepherdgazette.com/20120709185/July-August-2012/new-shanghai-circus.html

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Promoter Gives Branson Recommendations

By Dave Woods
Joplin Globe Digital market development manager

BRANSON Mo. — Cindy Merry has seen the spring break travel season explode during her years in Branson. “We consider ourselves the other spring break destination,” she told me recently. “We get a lot of families who come here to experience the diversity of shows and attractions. I think there is something for everyone.”

For more than 20 years, Cindy has advised some of Branson’s most successful entertainers, show producers and theater owners. She’s deeply involved in promoting Branson attractions and shows through the convention and visitors bureau, Branson Show League and area marketing councils.

Cindy knows Branson. I asked her what shows and attractions she would recommend to families headed to Branson for spring break. She was quick with a high flying recommendation.

Read the complete story here (hint - we are one of the recommendations!): Branson Recommendations