Goodbye, UFO redefines acrobatics

If your image of Chinese acrobats is someone balancing upside down on one hand atop six stacked chairs, or contorting a body into leg-splitting poses while holding umbrellas on the toes of the feet, it only proves one thing: you have been away from the world of acrobatics for too long.

The upcoming Goodbye UFO that runs from Dec 17 to Dec 21 at the Beijing Exhibition Center Theater is the latest production from the China National Acrobatic Troupe (CNAT).

Li Hongxiao plays the lead alien role in Goodbye, UFO.

The show is being promoted as the world's first 3D acrobatic musical, combining music, drama, acrobatic performances and 3D technology to turn the theater into a vivid future world.

Liu Chun, director of the multimedia show, wants to break conventional ideas about Chinese acrobatics.

"People used to be frightened that acrobats would fall at any time," Liu said. "But in this play, they will be totally attracted by the plot."

The performance takes place in a future world in which the earth is heavily polluted. A robot-like alien comes to earth with a mission to save it and after encountering difficulties, is successful.

Though it is said to be a serious topic intended to raise public awareness, Liu introduced lighthearted elements into the play. All the actors will not only perform breath-taking acrobatics but will also sing and dance.

There will also be more interaction between actors and the audience.

For example, actors will throw some props into the audience and suddenly invite them to get up and dance on the stage.

Li Hongxiao, 21, who plays the lead alien role, said it's a brand-new experience for him.

Li, wearing a thick robot-like costume, has to climb a pole with his hands while shouting and singing out lines in a robotic voice.

"I am sure our performance will rock the audience," he said.

Duan Yiru, an 11-year-old actress, said it is the most interesting performance she has ever taken part in.

"I love acrobatics, but I love singing on stage too," said Duan, who began practicing acrobatics at 8 years old.

"It is like a carnival on and off the stage, and everyone is happy."