Harris Center Welcomes Chinese Warriors Of Peking

Filled with high-intensity martial arts and breathtaking acrobatics, Chinese Warriors of Peking is set during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It tells the tale of two rival martial arts schools competing in the ancient Chinese capital of Peking. The Warriors provide a culturally enriching experience filled with juggling, acrobatics, weapons handling, and live stage combat. Presented in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture of The People's Republic of China, this brand new production is produced by Columbia Artists.

The Chinese Warriors of Peking come to the Harris Center for three performances: Saturday, September 22, 2018 at 7 pm and Sunday, September 23 at 2 pm and 7 pm. Tickets are $22-$42; Premium $48. A 10% discount is available for Sunday evening single tickets. Tickets are available online at www.harriscenter.net or from the Harris Center Ticket Office at 916-608-6888 from 12 noon to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday, and two hours before show time. Parking is included in the price of the ticket. The Harris Center is located on the west side of Folsom Lake College campus in Folsom, CA, facing East Bidwell Street.

"Some of the world's greatest acrobats and a host of undisputed masters of martial arts are featured, as well as some potential Olympic gymnastic medalists of the future" (Hastings Observer).

Peking was the capital of the Ming Dynasty between 1368 and 1644. Once a year, as it was done every year, the emperor held a royal Martial Arts tournament in Peking, inviting warriors from all over the country to attend. In Tianqiao Square, large crowds were drawn to witness the warriors demonstrating their impressive skill. Every school and discipline of Martial Arts arrived in Peking from all over China. The drums and trumpets sound as the emperor arrived. "Long live his Majesty!" the crowd chanted as the emperor announced the beginning of the tournament.

All of the different Martial Arts schools competed in the ring utilizing their various disciplines, techniques, and weapons to thwart their opponent. After several rounds of combat, the two schools left standing were the Shoalin and Wudang warriors. The final round was grueling and tense.

All of this happens before intermission in this "entertaining show for the whole family" (Eastbourne Herald). The dramatic story, as told onstage by a world-class ensemble of acrobats and martial artists, unfolds from there.

The company of the Chinese Warriors of Peking, now under the direction of Mr. Qui Jian, was founded in 1958 as a group of Chinese acrobats and martial artists. The Chinese Warriors of Peking tours the world; in 2016, the company's performance of Pagoda of Bowls was selected by the American UniverSoul Circus to tour with the circus for more than ten months. The company's Slack Wire act was picked by Cirque du Soleil and has toured with Cirque du Soleil around the world.

The company has won many awards. In 2010, at the 4th Shandong Provincial Acrobatics and Magic Competition, the company's Bicycle routine won first place and the Diabolo and Swinging Poles routine won 2nd place. In 2012, at the 5th Shandong Provincial Acrobatics and Magic Competition, the troupe's Stacking Chairs and Swinging Poles routine won first place. Most recently, the troupe's Spinning Plates routine won 2nd place at the 6th Shandong Provincial acrobatics and Magic Competition in July 2016.

Great Shows. Up Close. In Folsom!

The Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College brings the community together to share in cultural experiences featuring the work of artists from throughout the region and around the world. Built and operated by the Los Rios Community College District, the $50 million, state-of-the-art regional performing arts center boasts three intimate venues with outstanding acoustics, an art gallery, a recording studio, elegant teaching spaces, plenty of safe parking and all the other amenities of a world-class performing arts venue. Each year the Center hosts over 400 events attracting more than 150,000 annually.