Chinese acrobatics is a pearl in the treasure
house of the traditional Chinese performing arts. Chinese acrobatics
has a long and rich heritage. The acrobatic art has been existent
in China for more than two thousand years. As early as the Warring
States Period (475-221 BC), the rudiments of acrobatics existed.
By the time of the Han Dynasty (221 BC-220 AD), the acrobatic art
or "Hundred Plays" further developed both in content and variety.
In the Tang Dynasty, the number of acrobats greatly increased and
their performing skills improved a great deal.
In the long course of development, the Chinese acrobatic art
has formed its own style. The ancient acrobatics stemmed from the
people's life and had a close link with their life and productive
labor. Instruments of labor like tridents, wicker rings, tables,
chairs, jars, plates, and bowls were used in their performances
of "Flying Trident", "Balance on Chairs", "Jar Tricks", and "Hoop
Diving". Wushu and Lion Dance originated from folk sports and games.
All of these acts became commonplace in acrobatic performances throughout
China. Though having a long history of development and enjoying
great popularity among the people, acrobatics in old China was never
performed in theaters because it was looked down upon by the upper
class.
Since the middle of last
century, great efforts to foster and develop national arts and acrobatics
have gained a new life. All provinces, municipalities, and autonomous
regions have set up their own acrobatic troupes. The veteran performers
have better opportunities to display their skill. The acrobats in
modern China have set up a designing and directing system aimed
at creating graceful stage images, harmonious musical accompaniment,
and good supporting effects of costumes, props, and lighting in
order to bring about a fully developed stage art.
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