Since early times, Chinese acrobats have entertained audiences ranging from the poorest of peasants to mighty emperors. The Golden Dragon Acrobats continue this tradition that began twenty-five centuries ago in a performance the whole family will enjoy 7:30pm, Friday, October 19 at Shryock Auditorium.

The company hails from Cangzhou, Hebei province, in the People’s Republic of China. The 25 acrobats are athletes, actors and artists and are recognized throughout the United States and abroad as today’s premiere Chinese acrobatic touring company. This year marks their 29th anniversary of performing before audiences in all 50 states and in over 65 countries around the world.

Founder and Director Danny Chang and choreographer Angela Chang combine award-winning acrobatics, traditional dance, spectacular costumes, ancient and contemporary music and theatrical techniques to present a show of breathtaking skill and spellbinding energy. Juggled items will include everything from soccer balls to umbrellas to chandeliers. Contortionists will bend this way and that. And every imaginable prop from ladders to giant spinning wheels to bicycles will be used during this extravagant performance.

Tickets are $30, $25 and $10. SIUC students receive a $5.00 discount with proper ID. Children 12 and under receive a $5.00 discount. A 20% off discount per person is available for groups of 10 or more for select seats. Order tickets at ticketmaster.com/shryock, call 866-646-8849 or visit the SIU Ticket Office in the Arena (west entrance); the Student Center Ticket Office; Schnucks in Carbondale and Cape Girardeau; Kroger in Carbondale (east), Marion and Mt. Vernon; f.y.e. in Paducah or DJ’s Music in Paris, TN.