Arena Belgrade

During the last 20 years, more than 8 million people across Europe have been thrilled by the Chinese National Circus. Their acrobatic fairy tales have become a universal trademark and their new production CONFUCIUS is very much in the same tradition.

But what does an ancient Chinese philosopher have to do with a modern stage show? Well, the famous 'sayings' not only serve as an accompaniment to each breathtaking act, they also underpin them and help explain the artistes' amazing performances. As the Confucian saying goes, "Before beginning, you must have your heart, hand and thoughts in all your muscles."

The artistes exercise an astonishing control over their bodies and all the body's muscles, tendons, bones and joints. In its lightness, what they do is less a question of gymnastics, more one of art. What enables this apparent weightlessness is not the curve of bulging biceps, but an incredible discipline and a singular spiritual energy. In this way the show CONFUCIUS confirms the ancient wisdom, "Only the balance of forces leads to harmony." A truly Confucian virtue!

CONFUCIUS is a mood and a mental state, like Chinese artistry itself.