As December hits its stride, one can find more activities to undertake with their families during the holiday season. Last weekend, The Paramount staged its first production in its partnership with the UT Department of Theatre & Dance. Yet that play, featuring children's literature figure Junie B. Jones, wasn't the only family event this season. Soon, the world-famous Golden Dragon Acrobats will be taking the stage here in Austin at The Paramount Theatre. The troupe maintains the legend and mystique of traditional Chinese acrobatics, an art form over 2,500 years old.
Director Danny Chang and choreographer Angela Chang lead this group of 27 performers. This show first began its Broadway run in 2005 to sold-out crowds at the New Victory Theatre. Since that highly-acclaimed engagement, they have toured the world. They have played in all 50 states and over 65 countries, winning awards and maintaining themselves as the only Chinese acrobatic company that tours the U.S. year round.
Although capable of remarkable feats, these are also the types of stunts that make insurers very nervous. I'm sure crowds here will be treated to numerous acts of contortions and balancing that make us both exhilarated and completely unable to blink. In that case, be sure to bring eye drops, because you won't want to miss one single second. The feats promise to be awe-inspiring and amazing for attendees of all ages.
For instance, here is a promotional spot for the Golden Dragon Acrobats. Just look at this stuff!
In those 30 seconds are a plethora of stunts I would never dream of trying myself, for fear of broken limbs or possible paralysis. In particular, my jaw dropped at the towering balancing act. I'm not exactly a fan of heights, and I've never been known for my sense of balance. If I attempted that, I'd flop (literally). But you better believe I want to see someone else try!
From a cultural standpoint, I imagine it will be fascinating to behold the artisans exhibit such natural grace, agility and discipline. Being from a nation only a couple of hundred years old, it's nearly mind-boggling to think people have been practicing this athletic prowess for well over two millennia.
The Golden Dragon Acrobats promise to treat a full house to chills, thrills and gasps. Whether you attend to see the stunts, the control, the tradition, or for the spectacular art form, expect an exhibition of unmatched grace and beauty. One thing for sure, these will likely be the most nimble and downright bendy entertainers you will ever witness.
Come and see the spectacle with an auditorium full of fellow patrons staring in disbelief. Hey, there was a reason that these acrobat shows are where Danny Ocean and Rusty Ryan found their "grease man" for their little visit to Terry Benedict. It's because these people do things the rest of us mere mortals are simply unable to. And that, my friends, is something to behold.
The Golden Dragon Acrobats perform at The Paramount Theatre on Saturday, December 11th, at 4:00 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m.
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