Thousands enjoyed circus performances at Jiuzhou Town Square in Jida last Monday evening. It was the 100-day countdown preview of the first China International Circus Festival which will be held at the Chimelong International Ocean Resort International Circus Stadium on Hengqin Island from Nov 20 to Dec 1. 

Russian springboard, Kenyan flaming limbo dance, American clowns and Russian trampoline performances were presented by Chimelong International Circus. The men's strength-presentation, girls' jujitsu and buffeting bar show by the Guangzhou Acrobatic Troupe thrilled the audience and won applause.

In a Kenyan performance one of a trio bent backwards to pass beneath a flaming pole. The bamboo pole was placed horizontally on two iron bars and lowered three times, each time with the performer doing a limbo dance. The breath-taking demonstration wowed spectators, especially children.

Vice-mayor Long Guangyan, deputy director of the event's executive committee, launched www.circusfestival.com.cn, the official website, accompanied by other leaders as they initiated the countdown.

Sponsored by the Ministry of Culture and provincial government, and organised by the municipal government and Guangdong Chimelong Group, the circus festival aims to propel international exchange, enrich cultural life and boost economic and social development.