Once a skill deployed for financial survival, acrobatics from Dezhou, East China's Shandong province, has evolved into a celebrated global cultural icon. The Dezhou Acrobatic Troupe and the Ningjin Acrobatic Troupe each now perform over 600 shows overseas every year, captivating international audiences with their astonishing feats and daredevil antics.

In Seattle, performer Wei Meimei from the Ningjin Acrobatic Troupe recently mesmerized crowds by balancing and spinning a heavy square table with her feet. This blend of skill and artistry is a hallmark of the Dezhou craft.

The secret to its enduring international appeal lies in constant innovation. The Dezhou Acrobatic Troupe's production Shanshui Guochao (which literally translates as Chinese styles amidst mountains and water) integrates traditional culture, modern technology and nine types of acrobatics with poetry and dance. Such creativity has won it prestigious accolades, including a silver medal at Spain's International Circus Festival Gold Elephant in 2023.

A stunning scene from the Shanshui Guochao acrobatic performance. [Photo/SdChina]

Beyond performance, Dezhou acrobatics builds profound cultural bridges. It has fostered international partnerships, like its long-standing collaboration with the South Korean acrobatics association, and even sparked a cross-cultural romance between a Chinese acrobat and one swooning German fan. Through its breathtaking artistry, Dezhou acrobatics continues to share China's cultural heritage with the world.