Theatre: Though a Tourist Trap, ‘Cirque Shanghai’ Phenoms Reap Your Respect

CHICAGO – They do what you’d think bodies can’t and love to bellow “hai!” to earn a sequence’s well-deserved ovation.

Of course, native Chicagoans and locals who have seen the sights don’t think Navy Pier is nearly the big whoop tourists make it out to be.

While “Cirque Shanghai” is a touristy show dead smack in the most touristy trap in Chicago, it’s there for a reason and these painstaking performers earn their keep.

The Chinese acrobats have somersaulted into Navy Pier to pay homage to the Han Dynasty from 2,000 years ago. Their distinctive manifestations were originally coined “Bai Xai” – or “100 stunning acts” – in reference to a wide range of proficiencies.

The tightrope-walking tyke, for example, might earlier be seen with the cluster in the plate-spinning bit while the spider who scales slippery ribbons is also featured as a human pretzel. The stunts are all real, the danger is more than moderate and stage energy is vigorous for a show that runs 10 weeks.

Each and every troupe member has a meticulous attention to detail and an unstinting work ethic. They balance with grace and work in near-flawless choreography. Along with the “ooohs” and “ahhhs,” the physical contortion elicits some entertaining “ewwws,” too.

Here’s some hype that’s impressive fact: Some 135,000 Chicagoans saw Cirque Shanghai in 2006, which makes it the most successful event in the history of the Navy Pier Skyline Stage.

To be certain a performance is the real deal, try zeroing in on background performers not featured in a given act. When they’d just as easily shine in the limelight while blending in the shadows, you know the show’s a triumphant wrap.

“Cirque Shanghai” runs through Sept. 3 at the Navy Pier Skyline Stage at various times throughout the day on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets cost $12.50-$29.50.

© 2007 Adam Fendelman