THE Chinese State Circus is coming to Durham City next week with its new show, Dynasty.

A heated big top is being put up at The Sands with performances from Thursday to Sunday August 17-20.

Stunning world class Chinese acrobats, aerial artistes and jugglers interact with the super-human physical skills and dexterity of the masters of martial arts, the legendary Shaolin Warriors.

Promoters say there is non-stop action from start to finish as thrill follows thrill, set to a soaring musical score accompanied by the rhythmic beats of Chinese percussion.

Low-tech everyday objects are transformed into hi-tech acrobatic equipment so audiences can expect hurtling porcelain jars and spinning plates.

The show also features gigantic pyramids of tables and chairs framed by the delicate strands of silk supporting cascading aerialists.

Creative director Phillip Gandey became the first in Europe to obtain permission from the Chinese Cultural authorities to be allowed to tour a Big Top production of his own creation performed entirely by Chinese acrobats.

He said he has spent a considerable time travelling extensively throughout China to select the very best circus artistes.

Mr Gandey said: “In our latest production we have returned to the pure and honest perfection in acrobatics upon which our reputation is based.

“We have the world class artistes capable of performing the excellence required.”

Shows starts at 7pm Thursday, 2.30pm and 7pm Friday and Saturday and 12noon and 3pm on Sunday.

Tickets cost £10-£36 and can be booked by calling 0844-415-5228.