Ivy Kuo
Staff Writer
Immediately after their successful five-week run on Broadway, award-winning Cirque Zíva, a Chinese cirque company, will be performing at Campbell Hall on Saturday, Jan. 24 at 3:00 PM. The 75-minute show will be hosted by University of California, Santa Barbara’s Arts & Lectures, and is also part of the Family Fun series.
This premier troupe, also known as the Golden Dragon Acrobats, remains as the only Chinese acrobatic group that tours the U.S. year-round. They hold over 200 shows yearly, and have won numerous awards for their dazzling performances. Their first Broadway debut took place in 2005, and they were so critically acclaimed that they performed again at the end of 2014, making them the only Chinese acrobatic group to perform twice at this venue.
Cirque Zíva integrates cultural elements into their awe-inspiring dances through their integration of China’s Thousand Arms Dance and their intricate costumes inspired by traditional Chinese attire. The experience of watching their breathtaking performance is similar to that of Cirque Du Soleil, but these graceful Chinese acrobats skillfully incorporate Asian influences into their shows.
“When the Golden Dragon Acrobats come to town, the wonders stack up,” The New York Times writes. “These touring acrobats from China know how to keep topping themselves.”
Cirque Zíva is a truly unique, one-of-a-kind show, as their traditional Chinese acrobats charm its audiences, in front of spectacular set designs, as they balance on steep landers, tumble gracefully into the air, and jump from dangerous heights with skilled athleticism. Not only can this show be considered as a true work of art and aesthetically valuable, but it’s also a form of cultural exchange between the performers and audience members. Beyond the dangerous stunts and mesmerizing light shows is the insight into an aspect of traditional Chinese culture.
“This unique cirque spectacular showcases traditional Chinese acrobats who dazzle with amazing feats of athleticism, daring heart-stopping stunts and the grace of their centuries-old art form,” Broadway World states.
This live performance will truly be like one you’ve never seen before, with spectacular visuals and thrilling acrobatic stunts that will dazzle its audience members, while retaining its traditional Asian roots. This cirque show will excite and entertain people of all ages.
Tickets are priced at $16 for the general public and $12 for children. Bring your family an hour before the show for free crafting, balloon launching, and face painting.