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On the evening of August 29, the second “Flowing Artistry” Grand Canal Cultural Belt Acrobatics Excellence Show, organized by the China Acrobats Association and the Beijing Federation of Literary and Art Circles, was held at the Beijing Art Center. The show featured outstanding works from nine acrobatic troupes along the Grand Canal provinces and cities, vividly showcasing the timeless charm and contemporary innovations of acrobatic art along the canal. Pictured is “Taiji · Jar Rhythm” performed by the Hebei Acrobatic Troupe.
Grand Canal
The Grand Canal is a vast inland waterway system in eastern China that stretches over 1,100 miles from Beijing to Hangzhou. It is the world’s longest canal and was originally constructed in sections over centuries, with the oldest parts dating back to the 5th century BCE. It was historically a vital artery for the transport of grain and goods, playing a crucial role in China’s economic and cultural unification.
Beijing Art Center
The Beijing Art Center is a modern cultural venue that opened in 2023 as part of the city’s Sub-Center development in Tongzhou. It was designed to be a major hub for performing arts, featuring world-class acoustics and hosting a diverse program of opera, music, and theater. Its establishment continues Beijing’s long tradition of investing in grand cultural infrastructure to enrich public life.
China Acrobats Association
The China Acrobats Association is a national organization established to promote and develop the ancient art of Chinese acrobatics. It serves as a governing body that organizes performances, training, and international cultural exchanges for this traditional art form, which has a history stretching back over two millennia to the Qin Dynasty.
Beijing Federation of Literary and Art Circles
The Beijing Federation of Literary and Art Circles (BFLAC) is a mass organization established after the founding of the People’s Republic of China to unite and serve artists and writers in the capital. It operates under the guidance of the Chinese Communist Party to promote socialist culture and facilitate artistic creation. Historically, it has played a significant role in organizing cultural activities and implementing state cultural policies within Beijing.
Hebei Acrobatic Troupe
The Hebei Acrobatic Troupe is a renowned Chinese performance group from Hebei province, celebrated for preserving and innovating upon China’s ancient acrobatic traditions that date back centuries. It is famous for its breathtaking feats of balance, contortion, and juggling, which have garnered international acclaim and played a significant role in promoting Chinese cultural arts worldwide.