Chinese New Year Performance at St. Pius X

Jubilant shouts of “hao!” rang through St. Pius X School on February 23 during a Chinese New Year performance by acrobats from Dance China New York.  The St. Pius students eagerly implemented their fresh knowledge that “hao,” the Chinese word for “good,” may be combined with applause -- similar to the use of “bravo” -- to express excitement about a cultural performance. 

In addition to teaching the students about Chinese language and customs, the Chinese acrobats demonstrated amazing feats possible only after many years of training.  One of the routines featured an acrobat balancing upside-down on one hand, while spinning plates in the air with her free hand.  Later, jeweled mats, gold rings, silver sticks, and red ribbons swirled through the acrobats’ skillful hands – and feet – at all angles.  A giant lion, which appeared to be comprised of at least two acrobats concealed in a show-stopping costume, portrayed the traditional Chinese symbol of power, meant to scare bad spirits away and bring good fortune.  Though fierce, the lion exhibited the grace and agility that were the hallmark of these acrobats -- from the most delicate dancing butterfly, to the mesmerizing ribbon dancers, to the playful Monkey King (a popular character from the Peking Opera who has the ability to transform his body into 72 shapes).
One of the performers explained to the St. Pius students that today’s Chinese acrobats carry on the legacy of the world’s oldest form of performing arts.  Beginning at age five, the acrobats live in special boarding schools where they practice handstands, tumbling, and balancing eight hours each day.  There is rarely time for television while these performers-in-training are reenacting ancient Chinese history! 
The St. Pius X students who volunteered to participate on-stage with the acrobats quickly learned that even the simplest stunts were not nearly as easy as the performers made them look.  As the event concluded, students could be heard marveling at the acrobatics they had witnessed.  More importantly, each member of the audience had gained an appreciation for Chinese culture and for the goals that can be accomplished through dedication and hard work.
St. Pius X School, located at 24 Changebridge Road, offers a variety of cultural programs to broaden the educational experience of its students.  For a personal tour, call the school at (973) 335-1253.