Ravinia Family Fun Guide 2019

17 S U M M E R 2 0 1 9 PROGRAM NOTES : p.m. Wednesday, June Pavilion The Stars of the Peking Acrobats The Stars of the Peking Acrobats offer more than a glimpse into the fascinating traditions of the East. The troupe consists of sensational Chinese acrobatics, comedy, balancing feats, and much more. A true spectacular and a show for all ages, the performance combines the grace and precision of the acrobats and the triumph of years of dedicated training and discipline. Chinese acrobatics are, in fact, more than just a series of stunts. Most of these acts clearly demonstrate the achievement of perfection through finding harmony between mind and body – an ancient concept from the East. The art form has been transformed from simple “folk art” to the spectacular entertainment of today through centuries of tradition. Training to become one of the members of the Peking Acrobats begins at an early age, often a multigenerational experience. Formal training sometimes begins as early as age  or , with observing family members contort, leap, and sail through the air having already begun the passing of the tradition. Some acrobats have mastered their craft and are considered professional performers by the time they are  or  years old. The Hai Family has similarly cultivated its expertise in directing the Stars of the Peking Acrobats over generations and has become synonymous with the physical feats of daring and skill throughout their native China, earning standing ovations across North America as well as throughout Europe, South and Central America, Southeast Asia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Monte Carlo, New Zealand, and Israel.