Chimelong Group gave the news media a thrilling hi-tech experience in the huge new Zhuhai Chimelong Theater on July 17 with a preview of Long Xiu (Dragon Show) starring the Fisher Maiden and her sweetheart, Hai Peng.

The lovers embark on their quest for happiness and the Golden Dragon in nightly performances beginning at 7:30 on Friday, July 26 in the brand-new international performing arts center. The three-story theater has total floor area of 71,000 sq m (17.5 acres), equivalent to 10 soccer fields. It can accommodate 6,700 spectators.

Chimelong's novel circus show Long Xiu will debut on the brightly lit stage on the evening of the grand opening. The adaptation of the Fisher Maiden legend involves more than 300 circus artists in over 30 teams from 22 countries and regions combining their sophisticated circus skills. 

Zhuhai Chimelong Theater

In addition to flying 3D dragons, dragon-themed festooned vehicle parades, and swimming dragons, auspicious Chinese dragon elements are also incorporated into costumes and even the background music.

The design team from the UK used red, yellow, and blue vertical lines on the exterior of the building to create exhilarating and varied visual effects. The inspiration came from the traditional circus tent, according to Lu Yong, head of the engineering design team.

The theatre is equipped with a 270-degree panoramic ring stage, three large surrounding waterways, and a 360-degree elevated circular track of over 250 m (273 yd). A 5-m (5.47-yd)-wide passage for parades is set between seats, along with other large-scale performing equipment such as aerial lifting devices and hidden aircraft.

A striking attraction is the LED screen of more than 1,300 sq m, roughly the combined area of three basketball courts. The LED technology, when combined with a projection system, is said to create an unparalleled visual experience. 

Lighting effects and spacious audience area

Water curtains, fountains, and rising stages with water elements will demonstrate that water is key to the presentation of dreams, or at least dreamy scenes. Stage effects created by lasers and projection devices are intended to add a dashing and romantic flavor.

The theater may lack elephants and stallions to go with the dragons, but it will nevertheless thrill viewers just as circuses always have, stated a spokesperson.

The facility is designated to host the Sixth China International Circus Festival, according to Li Xining, assistant president and general manager of the performing arts department of Chimelong Group. The festival was formerly held at Zhuhai Chimelong Hengqin International Circus City.

Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in Zhuhai is one of the most visited theme parks in the world. 

Parade of floats [Photos by Zhu Xi / Zhuhai Daily]