WHO/WHAT: COCA presents Stars of the Peking Acrobats
Stars of the Peking Acrobats kicks off the 2008-2009 COCA Family Theatre Series October 10-12. For two decades, the COCA Family Theatre Series has brought St. Louis some of the world's most innovative, highly acclaimed performers, with this season's lineup featuring more international acts than ever before.
Stars of the Peking Acrobats will be the first presentation in the newly re-furbished Founders' Theatre. Practical and aesthetic updates include new seats, improved sightlines and updated lighting.
All the way from China, for five hour-long performances, these gymnasts, jugglers, cyclists and tumblers create an awe-inspiring performance that features formidable feats, explosive acrobats, brilliant costumes, and special effects as well as live musical accompaniment.
Under the direction of the legendary Hai family, the acrobats have, for decades, been diplomats of their spirited culture. They have toured the world over, leaving audiences spellbound by the graceful presentation of their ancient folk art and acrobatics. Carefully selected from the finest acrobatic schools in China, the performers transform a 2000-year-old athletic discipline into an all-ages kaleidoscope of entertainment and wonder.Stars of the Peking Acrobats has been featured on various television specials including Guinness World Records: Primetime on Fox where it set the world record for the human chair stack. Members of this troupe have also been featured on the silver screen in Steven Soderbergh's film Oceans 11.
WHEN: Friday, Oct. 10 - 7:00 p.m.Saturday, Oct. 11 - 11:00 a.m. & 4:30 p.m.Sunday, Oct. 12 - 1:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.WHERE: COCA, 524 Trinity Avenue, in the University City Loop, just off DelmarCOST: Tickets are $14 and $18 and are available through MetroTix (314.534.1111 or www.metrotix.com) and the COCA Box Office (314.725.1834 x124).
Founded in 1986, COCA is a multidisciplinary community arts center that provides exceptional arts education through programs, performances and exhibitions. Programs include the COCA Family Theatre Series, presenting nationally recognized artists in its 400-seat theatre; educational classes, camps, and workshops in dance, music, drama, and visual arts for all ages; and contemporary art exhibits in the Millstone Gallery. COCA's award-winning outreach program, Urban Arts, provides free arts education to low-income students throughout St. Louis. For more information about COCA, please visit www.COCAstl.org. |
