Leaping into the dark

Though impressive in its own right, the format could, over time, begin to feel predictable. Yet, in the hands of Sun and her team, the act has been transformed into something extraordinary, capturing the essence of innovation without losing its traditional roots. Through an ingenious combination of props and choreography, the troupe is infusing new energy into the performance, elevating it to breathtaking heights.

"Eight rings," Sun says with pride, watching as the acrobats leap through multiple rings stacked in succession as high as 3 meters. "They can now clear up to eight rings in one jump and this time, they will jump in darkness."

Making her stage debut at the age of 8, Sun, herself an iconic figure in the world of Chinese acrobatics, has spent about four decades working with the China National Acrobatic Troupe and nurturing the troupe's young talents, pushing the limits of their skills, and expanding the boundaries of what was thought possible.

This year, as the China National Acrobatic Troupe marks its 75th anniversary, she is excited to see that the troupe has undergone significant transformations, adapting to new trends, technology and global expectations while staying rooted in the traditions of Chinese acrobatics.

According to Li Chi, president of the China National Acrobatic Troupe, the history of Chinese acrobatics spans more than 3,000 years, making the form one of the oldest and most enduring performing arts.