In Dunedin, The Beijing Acrobatic & Cultural Troupe will present a colourful family-style show on Monday, November 11, at 6.30pm, featuring acrobatics, magic, music and dance.
The visit has been organised by a group of local Chinese associations, including the Otago Chinese Professionals Association, Otago & Southland Chinese Association, Lan Yuan Dunedin Chinese Garden Trust, Dunedin Senior Chinese Association and Dunedin Chinese Scholar & Student Association, with support from the Christchurch-based Consul General of the People’s Republic of China.
Otago Chinese Professionals Association chairman Joe Jiang said the troupe, which regularly toured the world, was only visiting Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin while in New Zealand.
"We are very excited to be bringing The Beijing Acrobatic & Cultural Troupe to Dunedin — having this show here is a rare opportunity for people to experience Chinese culture first-hand," Mr Jiang said.
"It is definitely a family show, hence the earlier start-time, and will be suitable for children of all ages."
Alongside magic and acrobatics, the performance will feature traditional Chinese opera — both Peking Opera and ancient Kunqu Opera, juggling, folk music and dance. It will also showcase the ancient Chinese martial and performance art Flexible Bone Gongfu — a unique style of contortionism.
A leading proponent of tap dancing and ball skills Cao Kai will present a performance combining the two skills in spectacular style — keeping up to 10 balls bouncing and moving while dancing. In the past 18 years, Cao Kai has performed in more than 70 countries.
Mr Jiang said the Otago Chinese Professionals Association worked closely with other local Chinese associations to support the community as much as possible.
"It is great that there is a strong and supportive Chinese presence here," he said.
Tickets are available now via the Regent Theatre box office or website.
