Kungfu galore

Kungfu performances are always a must-see favorite of overseas visitors to Beijing. Poem of Kungfu, now showing at the Poly Theater until the end of June, is the latest offering of this extravaganza.

The spectacular show, directed by China's leading choreographer Liu Zhen, is a dazzling combination of martial arts and dance. Artists playing young monks, kick, punch and wield their weapons with unnerving speed, power and agility. The stunning effects of this visual feast can be attributed to innovative choreography and action-timed music that is punctuated with fearsome thuds as the combatants slam each other to the ground.

The show's nine acts celebrate the nine virtues of cleanliness, diligence, discipline, stability, respect for the realm, wisdom, tolerance, flexibility and self-esteem, which are expected of any self-respecting monk. Its theme is the quest to purify the soul through the pursuit of harmony, love, peace and freedom.

7:30 pm June 6-11, 18-23, 26-30

No 14 Dongzhimen Nandajie Street

6592-2273, 6506-5343

(China Daily 06/06/2008 page20)