Acclaimed acrobatic show "Era" performers will teach simple acrobatics and magic, like card and money tricks, to audience members this Friday in a six-hour marathon at Shanghai Metro City in Xujiahui. "Era" is preparing to tour overseas, writes Xu Wei.

The city's acrobatics and magic lovers are invited to a free, six-hour interactive performance to learn simple acrobatics and up close magic by performers of "Era - Intersection of Time" this Friday.

The Shanghai Metro City in Xujiahui will be filled with fun and mystery. Veterans who are usually hailed for their stunning performance on stage at the Shanghai Circus World will make themselves available for face-to-face talks with the curious audience. And lessons.

Additionally, they will teach people some basic skills for the simple but still intriguing acrobatics and close-up magic, including card tricks and coin-and-money tricks.

These programs, based on finger movements and sleight-of-hand, are perfect for entertaining family or friends. The most talented students can receive gifts.

Ever since its debut in September 2005, the daily-running "Era," one of the most lavish and high-tech shows in the history of Chinese theater, has taken in 60 million yuan (US$7.5 million) from more than 600 performances. Around 500,000 people have watched the show.

This Friday's six-hour show is just part of the celebrations that began last Sunday.

Economists from Fudan University and the producers and consultant of "Era" have already given a free lecture on the secrets of the show's success and how it can influence the future of Chinese stage productions.

The 2005 Super Girl Ji Minjia, who sang the beautiful theme song of "Era" in several special performances last year, has also discussed her experience and affinity with the show at the chatroom of eastday.com

According to Ma Minhui, deputy general manager of Shanghai Era Entertainment Co Ltd, they're planning to take the show to the Western countries later this year. Canadian director Eric Villeneuve will arrive in town to improve and adjust some of the show's programs to meet Western audience tastes.

"Nowadays fashionable acrobatics and magic have become a popular genre among today's young people," Ma says. "We hope the public road show in different venues can continue to arouse their enthusiasm about this age-old art form."

Era
Date: April 20, 1-7pm
Venue: The plaza of Shanghai Metro City, 1111 Zhaojiabang Rd
Admission: free
Tel: 021-66525468