Ancient cultural heritage and humanitarian values unite Greece and China
“Flying Fairy” Chinese Acrobatic Show Makes a Stunning Debut at Athens Christmas Theater During Sino-Hellenic International Theatre Festival
The Guangzhou Acrobatic Troupe of China, invited by the Sino-Hellenic International Theatre Festival, captivated nearly 2,000 spectators at Athens Christmas Theater with the debut of the Chinese acrobatic show “Flying Fairy”. Showcasing breathtaking and elegant performances such as “Ballet on Shoulders,” “Aerial Silk,” and “Double Aerial Dance,” the event highlighted the exceptional artistry of Chinese acrobatics and its seamless integration of traditional Chinese aesthetics with Western classical beauty.
Pre-Show Highlights: 2024-2025 Festival Press Conference
Before the premiere, the 2024-2025 Sino-Hellenic International Theatre Festival press conference was held inside the theater.
George Kakavas, Director of the Greek Ministry of Culture’s Department of Contemporary Art, emphasized in his speech the shared admiration for ancient civilizations and humanistic values that connect Greece and China, despite the geographical distance. He expressed gratitude for the festival’s outstanding contributions to cultural exchange between the two nations.
Wang Ying, Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Greece, noted that the deepening practical cooperation and cultural exchanges between China and Greece serve as a model for mutual learning among civilizations. She highlighted their joint efforts from both nations to promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.
Jannis Theofanopoulos, President of the Greece-China Friendship Association, shared his enthusiasm for seeing Chinese acrobatics again, having previously admired them during his duty as Greek Ambassador to China. He commended the festival for bringing such cultural treasures to Greece, fostering deeper ties between the two countries.
Irene Moundraki, Head of Drama Department at the Greek National Theater, congratulated the festival for successfully enabling cultural exchanges between Greece and China. She expressed anticipation for next year’s festival, where the Greek National Theater, under the direction of renowned Greek theater master Theodoros Terzopoulos, will present the epic theatre masterpiece “Orestia” in China.
Wu Zhengdan, Director of the Guangzhou Acrobatic Troupe, introduced the troupe’s commitment to blending Eastern and Western cultures. She highlighted segments from their acclaimed productions, such as “Butterfly Lover” and “Swan”, which were featured in the Athens performances, offering Greek audiences a unique “Chinese Acrobatic Show.”
After the press conference, Counselor Wang Ying met with the acrobatic troupe to convey greetings from Chinese Ambassador Fang Qiu and to offer encouragement to the performers.
The Athens Dance Troupe of the Sino-Hellenic Performing Arts Alliance delivered a vibrant opening dance for the event.
About the Sino-Hellenic International Theatre Festival
The Sino-Hellenic International Theatre Festival is a vital cultural exchange platform aimed at fostering mutual understanding and friendship between China and Greece through drama and performing arts. Launched in December 2023, the festival has been instrumental in promoting the exchange of outstanding artistic works from both countries. This year’s festival invited the Guangzhou Acrobatic Troupe to introduce Greek audiences to the essence of traditional Chinese acrobatics infused with modern expression.
About the Guangzhou Acrobatic Troupe
Founded in 1959, the Guangzhou Acrobatic Troupe is one of China’s most prestigious acrobatic troupes with a history spanning 65 years. Renowned for blending traditional Chinese acrobatics with innovative stagecraft, the troupe has created internationally acclaimed performances and won numerous top art awards at home and abroad. The Guangzhou Acrobatic Troupe is not only a benchmark for Chinese acrobatic arts but also a key cultural ambassador for China on the global stage.
Performance Review: A Mesmerizing Blend of Thrill and Grace
The Flying Fairy Chinese Acrobatic Show enthralled the audience with its extraordinary artistry and innovative choreography. Combining traditional acrobatics with modern stage techniques, the show offered an immersive artistic experience. Each act not only demonstrated the performers’ remarkable physical abilities but also conveyed profound themes of dreams and hope intrinsic to Chinese culture. The audience responded with resounding applause and unanimous praise.
As a key highlight of the Sino-Hellenic International Theatre Festival, this debut performance solidifies the foundation for upcoming shows and marks a significant chapter in the international promotion of Chinese culture.
Flying Fairy Chinese Acrobatic Show will continue to bring more spectacular performances to Athens audiences in the coming days. Stay tuned!
