Oct. 7, 2011

From a gentle ballet, singing and dancing to performing contortions, plates spinning and unique acrobatic diabolo techniques, the National Acrobats of the People's Republic of China (China National Acrobatic Troupe) will be making a stop on its inaugural tour in North America to perform at Shawnee State University's Vern Riffe Center for the Arts at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 25.

Direct from Beijing, China, the company was the first National Performing Arts Troupe established by the government of the People's Republic of China in 1950.

"This company is China's finest acrobat ensemble on its first United States tour," said Carl Daehler, executive director of the Vern Riffe Center. "They are phenomenal and perform amazing feats. We are truly fortunate to have them come to Portsmouth."

The company owns the Institution for Acrobatic Schooling, Training and Repertoire in Beijing, one of the largest in the world. The institution has more than 150 Acrobatic resident performers and more than 500 Acrobatic Students of all ages.

The 35-member troupe has performed in more than 40 countries and won the President Award at the 26th International Circus Festival of Tomorrow, in Paris, France, and many other golden awards both in China and abroad.

The troupe's gold prize winning stunts like "Slack Wire," "China Soul," and "Acrobatic Spectacular" that have captivated the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide will be on full display at the Vern Riffe Center.

Tickets for the performance are from $29 to $38. To purchase tickets, contact the McKinley Box Office, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (740) 351-3600 or find out more on the web at boxoffice@sopaa.org or at sopaa.org. Gift certificates may also be purchased.