Wuqiao, Hebei: Millennia-old acrobatics thrive through heritage and innovation

On Sept. 28, the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival opened in Wuqiao county, Hebei province — the birthplace of Chinese acrobatics. The event not only showcased world-class performances but also symbolized a cultural return to roots and identity.

Recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, Wuqiao acrobatics has long depended on grassroots transmission. The traditional model of "father to son, master to apprentice" remains prevalent, with small acrobatics courtyards scattered across the county. These spaces serve as more than training grounds: they are crucibles of discipline, ethics, and craftsmanship. The daily reverence for "every move as kung fu" and dedication to preserving the essence of the craft has sustained Wuqiao acrobatics for more than a thousand years.

From being listed among China's first batch of national intangible cultural heritage items, to introducing acrobatics education across local schools, to founding the country's first vocational secondary school for acrobatics — the Hebei Wuqiao Acrobatics Art School — with its "theory plus practice" model, Wuqiao has built a complete pathway from general education to professional training. Today, 76 nationally recognized inheritors and thousands of graduates form a strong talent pool that ensures the art's continuity.

More than a century ago, Wuqiao performers brought Chinese acrobatics to the world stage. Now, the exchange is two-way: increasing numbers of international students come to Wuqiao to learn the art, while acrobats from around the globe present their work at the Wuqiao festival.

At the same time, Wuqiao acrobatics continues to innovate by integrating traditional skills with contemporary aesthetics, technology and markets. "Auspicious Lions Leap" reinterprets cultural symbols, while "Opera Dreams with Diabolo" fuses yo-yo tricks with the expressive flair of opera masks.

Today, Wuqiao is expanding acrobatics from a performance art into a broader industry encompassing education, equipment manufacturing, cultural tourism and digital content. This transformation has provided steady economic support and broader development opportunities, helping ensure the sustainable growth of Wuqiao acrobatics.