新視野大學英語視聽說教程第四冊 Unit 7 Task1: The History of Chinese Acrobatics
Welcome to the magnificent world of the Beijing Acrobats! Here the impossible is made of possible, and “daring” only begins to describe their amazing performance. The Beijing Acrobats are comprised of the finest acrobatic troupes in China today and have received acclaimfrom countries around the world. An outgrowth of Great China Circus, popular during the 1920’s, this group became an integrated professional acrobatic company in 1958.
Many of the magnificent and sophisticated feats we see today were performed even in ancient times. The history of Chinese acrobatics is rich in tradition and dates back over 2,000 years. It began with folk arts; tumbling, juggling ordinary household objects and balancing.
Myth and religion also influenced the acrobatic performing arts. The Lion Dance is Buddhistin origin. It was a symbol for the spirit of renewal and for avoiding bad luck. Throughout the history of China the acrobatic arts flourished, but in varying degrees. Originally, court entertainments were formal and monotonous, quite the opposite of the lively folk arts of the people. Eventually, however, the excitement of the acrobats’ amazing feats caught and held the attention of the ruling class. Acrobatic performers were routinely invited to the court to entertain and impress the Emperors. These varied acts of tumbling, singing, dancing and juggling became known as “The Hundred Entertainments” in the Han Dynasty, more than 2, 000 years ago. The acrobatic arts have always maintained their popularity with the people. Today the acrobatics of families carry on this highly-acclaimed tradition. Children begin training at a young age to do handstands on a chair, balance jar, spin plates and throw knives; they stick to a strict training schedule which they follow the rest of their lives.
Now let’s sit back, relax and enjoy the shows as our performers reveal to you their mastery of an ancient art from, thousands of years in the making!
1. Where does this speech probably occur?
2. When was the Great China Circus popular?
3. How long is the history of Chinese acrobatics?
4. According to the passage, what does the lion in a Lion Dance symbolize?
5. How long do acrobats receives training?
Keys: 1D 2.A 3.C 4.B 5.D
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