THE CHIMELONG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUS: CROWN JEWEL OF GUANGZHOU CHIMELONG
The Chimelong International Circus is the crown jewel of Guangzhou Chimelong. It showcases a wonderful circus performance that should not be missed. With a huge forest-like stage layout and a world-class team, more than 400 animals perform in realistic forests, hills, streams, and boats. There are also acrobatics and float parades to see. It is definitely an unforgettable entertainment experience.
The Circus is one of the star attractions in the Chimelong Empire. With a nightly 1.5 hour show full of theatrics, comedy, daredevils, animal tricks, and talented dancers, Chimelong Circus attracts groups of adults and school children alike.
Situated in a large open amphitheater with seating for 7,000, Chimelong Circus has established itself as the world’s largest non-traveling circus.
CLOWNS
These clowns are friendly and pleasant, even to those with a fear of clowns. At Chimelong Circus, the clowns act as MCs and guide the pace of the show, transitioning one act to the next. In one act, a clown interacts with his primate friend, which is guaranteed to garner a few chuckles from the audience.
HORSE ACT
The horse act is a thrilling, fast-paced, and action-packed act. The herd of horses at Chimelong is a talented and well-trained group, with their acrobatic riders equally as graceful and swift.
Watch riders perform tricks, dangling precariously off saddles, standing atop each other on horseback as the horses gallop around the circus circle.
CARNIVAL PARADE
The parade of baby elephants, flamingoes, baby pigs, and glittering showgirls are a welcome mid-show breather. Head down the stairs to the front for a better view, especially if you have kids.
HUMAN HAMSTER WHEEL
This group of three men and one woman performing daring acts on a huge three-ringed rotating wheel, where they flip and perform running tricks inside and on top of the rings. It’s one of the most thrilling, entertaining acts of the circus.
DIVING ACT
The closing act features a group of ten to twenty young men and women who transform the stage into a water and trampoline spectacular. Featuring diving and acrobatics, a seemingly unusual combination until you see the show. The act is perhaps the most light hearted.
While not exactly just around the corner, it is very easy to get there with the metro.
Take Line 3 to Hanxi Changlong Subway Station. At the exit there will be shuttle buses that whisk you straight to Chimelong. There are also shuttle buses to take you from the Safari Park to the circus. Circus performances are from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Gates open at 7:00 p.m.
1)Chimelong’s website advises advance ticket purchases for the weekend. However, to non-Chinese speakers (and those without China’s Union Pay credit card) the system is clunky and confusing.
Depending on weather and season, weekend shows may sell out, so plan ticketing in advance. Shows during the week typically won’t have this problem.
2)Doors open at 6pm, an hour and a half before the show starts. Particularly on the weekends, seats will be filled by 7pm so for the best seats, send one from your party to save a group of seats closer to opening time.
3)There is no assigned seating, unless you buy VIP tickets, so try to be there early to pick a good seat, especially during weekends and holidays.
4)Seat close to the front for the best action, but beware you might get wet during some of the acts involving lots of water splashing.
5)The parade comes through the middle of the arena, so seating in the second section is also a good spot to catch this part of the action.
6)Transportation may be a bit chaotic when the show ends, with many local families driving their own cars. Taxis generally circulate the area close to the show’s closing time, so those on foot won’t be completely out of luck, but as usual the metro may be the quickest option.
7)The use of flash is prohibited during the show, for the safety of performers. Remember to turn off your camera or phone flash before the start of the show.
8)Shows rotate regularly, with Chimelong allowing each troupe ample flexibility to curate their shows. As a result the circus may not be the same experience from one season to the next – or even from month to month making it a refreshing experience with each visit.
