Splendid Way To Start The Year!

Incredible stunts and flexibility that seemingly defy laws of space and gravity never fail to amaze me.

Sadly though, my fascination for acrobatic discipline is hardly satisfied since the best ones are available only on DVD (which takes away every ounce of thrill one gets from watching live circus), at least here in the Philippines. The other option is to travel halfway round the world, which is obviously a little too costly.

Santa then must have heard a silent wish when "Splendide! The Grand China National Acrobatic Circus" came to town for Christmas. 13 acts that just keep getting better and better, one after the other, China's National Acrobats are in town offering Filipinos, from all ages, a show they will never forget.

It was on Christmas night when I watched at the Araneta Coliseum and I can't count the number of times I had to hold my breath not knowing what's going to happen next. Yet no worries since all the performers majestically pulled through after each and every stunt! One can tell that these guys know their thing very well and that they are excellent at it. It really wouldn't be a surprise at all if only everyone knew that they've already won so many prestigious awards all around the world.

Personal favorites for the balancing acts and death-defying stunts are: 1) amazing suspension, splits, straddles and one hand-stands, on poles that make up an almost ceiling-high kind of ladder, 2) performers walking, crawling and jumping from pole to another ala “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” style (they looked like a live video-game!) and of course the finale act, which I better leave to the viewers to see.

Aside from acrobatic skills, performances were greatly enhanced by different stage elements. They opened using bright and happy colors that came together in wonderful formations. They also had graceful choreography, partnered with unique and beautiful mix of oriental-modern music, all through out the show. I especially thought that the little ballerina who stood full point on her partner's shoulders was breathtaking. It was also quite unbelievable that “Mr.Juggler” managed up to nine balls and not lose, even just a bit of his composure and showmanship. And should you make the time to watch, do not forget to take note of the everyday things they used as props; watch carefully how they will use ropes, sticks, parasols, rice bowls and more. I learned that the troupe is here for a very limited engagement and that "Splendide" will run only up to Jan. 3, 2011.

I went to watch with my whole family and it proved to be a real treat for all of us that we couldn't stop talking about our respective favorite parts on our way home. I believe it will be the same for you and your loved ones, especially on this holiday season. It's a rare opportunity to have one of the world's bests here in our own land, so I say, take advantage of this particularly memorable and exciting way to say goodbye to 2010 and welcome 2011. Happy Holidays!
source: mb.com.ph/