Ep 2. China Circus: On Ice

In National Geographic Documentaries, season 2007, episode 2, titled "China Circus: On Ice," the audience is taken on a fascinating journey through the world of ice acrobatics. The episode explores the unique combination of circus stunts and ice skating that has become a major form of entertainment in China.

The documentary starts with an introduction to the Chinese acrobatic culture. With over two thousand years of history, Chinese acrobatics has become a widely recognized art form around the world. The documentary then focuses on the incredible acrobats who perform on ice. They are unlike any other performers in the world. They possess an exceptional athleticism, combined with a keen sense of balance, and precision movements that make their performances awe-inspiring.

A big part of their training involves long hours of skating practice. They make every move look effortless, but the reality is they practice their craft for hours on end, day after day, in order to perfect their stunts and routines. The documentary showcases their training, highlighting the challenges they face and the risks they take on a daily basis.

The performers are the lifeblood of the show, and the documentary dives deep into the lives of these daring acrobats. We are introduced to their individual stories - their ambitions, passions, and struggles. Viewers will see how their love for ice acrobatics has taken them from humble beginnings in small towns to the grand stages of China's largest cities.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to breathtaking performances, demonstrating the spectacular displays of balance, agility, and control on skates. The documentary shows how the performers master difficult and dangerous acrobatic routines on the ice - from spinning somersaults to stone-cold backflips, other stunts that are difficult to describe.

We see the enchanting visual stories and mesmerizing performances featuring aerial silks, hand balancing, spinning plates, juggling, flying trapeze, and more. The audience will be in awe as they watch a solo performer balance on a chair on a single skate while maintaining her poise and gracefulness.

The documentary also highlights the role of music in ice acrobatics. Music sets the tone for the performance and enhances the beauty of the movements. The music composed for the China Circus is the perfect mix of Eastern traditional and modern styles.

The documentary also showcases the immense amount of effort that goes behind the scenes in putting together a show of this magnitude. A team works behind the scenes, from the makeup artists and costume designers to the production managers. They work tirelessly to ensure the success of the circus event.

"China Circus: On Ice" is a fascinating overview of the incredible art of Chinese circus acrobatics. National Geographic Documentaries delivers a visual treat that will leave viewers in awe and admiration. The show is a love letter to the art form and the performers who have dedicated their lives to it. This episode is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys the performing arts.