October 23 by Joshua Clark, Entertainment writer for Branson Tri-Lakes Newspaper
Despite the wet, overcast day Thursday, the sun seemed to be shining brightly over the New Shanghai Theatre as the New Shanghai Circus received several local dignitaries, as well as some from China, as it was presented with a rare honor.
“The reason I came here today is to honor the New Shanghai Circus as an International Foundation of Chinese Cultural Entertainment,” Jin Lin, president of the Acrobats Association, said through an interpreter. “To the Chinese people, this is a very amazing honor.”
This honor is so special, just the fact it was presented on American soil says something about the relationship between China and the United States.
“This team has made a great contribution to our Chinese culture,” Lin said. “They have brought our heritage to many American people, which helps not only show our culture, but build our relationships. Our continued success relies on the people of Taney County, the Chamber of Commerce and members of the media.”
Lin also spoke of the importance of having a good relationship between two important countries.
“After several years of heightened relationships, now the Chinese and American people have a very decent friendship,” Lin said. “You can buy all products made in China in the United States, and in China, we see McDonald’s, Coca-Cola and Kentucky Fried Chicken everywhere.”
The Chinese people believe that sharing their culture and heritage with the rest of the world will bring people closer together.
“It is really unusual for a Chinese businessman to come to America, start a corporation and be able to compete in a market such as Branson,” Cindy Merry said. “This event is being featured on newspapers and television shows all over China. This is really a big deal.”
In addition to Lin, Western Taney County Commissioner Jim Strafuss also presented the theater with a resolution from the county that he presented with the help of his daughter, Liberty, who he adopted from China in 2004.
“The Chinese culture is very near and dear to my heart,” Strafuss said. “The theater and this association has a lot of community involvement, including the Adopted Chinese Children Association, and we are very honored they chose Taney County for their home base to showcase these acrobats.”
Jerry Adams, Branson public information director, was also on hand to honor the guests.
“It is an honor to have all these dignitaries from China here in Branson,” Adams said. “Having this show here really expands what Branson has to offer to the millions of tourists that visit our community. Plus, it gives the area such a great international flare.”
The New Shanghai Circus will also be an integral part of a 2010 promotion called “See the World in Branson.” More details on the promotion as they become available.
“I think that this is all just great,” Merry said. “They add something really different to Branson.”
The New Shanghai Circus performs shows at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 8 p.m. shows on Sundays. For additional information, visit acrobatsofchina.com, or call 417-336-8888.
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