Golden Dragons Acrobats Come to the Orpheum Tonight

Omaha Performing Arts presents Golden Dragon Acrobats in Slosburg Hall at the Orpheum Theater tonight, April 29, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets start at $15, and are available at TicketOmaha.com, 402.345.0606 or at the Ticket Omaha Office inside the Holland Center, 1200 Douglas St. Golden Dragon Acrobats is part of the Omaha Performing Arts 14/15 Family Series.

The Golden Dragon Acrobats will present the family-friendly Cirque Zi?va in Omaha. Created in 2011 in coordination with renowned lighting director Tony Tucci (Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre; 1996 Summer Olympics Cultural Olympiad), Cirque Zi?va is a fast-paced, technically-innovative show presented in centuries-old Chinese acrobatics. The large cast and set designs illustrate the best of the producer and artistic director's Danny Chang's brand of artistic merit, high production value, and solid commitment to cultural exchange.

Lien Chi Chang established the Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats in 1967 with his family, including his son, Danny Chang. After more than 17 years of apprenticeship under his dad, Danny Chang took over leadership and established its presence - now known as Golden Dragon Acrobats - the preeminent Chinese acrobatic company in the United States. The New York Post said the company "delivers beautifully choreographed routines showcasing their amazing skills and physicality, accompanied by a musical score of traditional Chinese music filtered through a New Age sensibility. Juggling everything from umbrellas to soccer balls - and with props as varied as ladders and giant spinning wheels-the performers show just why they're world-famous." Its members are athletes, actors and artists who have studied and trained for their craft since early childhood. In 2005, their Broadway debut and seven-week run at the New Victory Theater earned two New York Drama Desk Awards nominations (Best Choreography and Most Unique Theatrical Experience). Cirque Zi?va's 10-week engagement at Asbury Park Boardwalk's Paramount Theatre was the first-ever summer run held at the venue in its more than 80- year history.

Golden Dragon Acrobats performs at the Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St., April 29, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets start at $15, and are available at TicketOmaha.com, 402.345.0606 or at the Ticket Omaha Office inside the Holland Center, 1200 Douglas St. Hospitality Sponsor is Hotel Deco XV.