Stepping Out

Masters of martial arts

Chinese Warriors of Peking celebrate time-honored traditions

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On Stage

Chinese Warriors of Peking
The acclaimed acrobats and martial artists have gained worldwide recognition touring with Cirque du Soleil. They’ve since gone out on their own; entertaining audiences with a fast-paced production is filled with breathtaking martial arts and elaborate acrobatics. “Slack Wire,” “Pagoda of Bowls” and “Bicycle” are just some of their most famous and successful acts, winning numerous awards over the years. Their current touring production, set during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), relates a tale of two rival martial arts disciplines competing in the ancient Chinese capital of Peking. The fascinating ensemble incorporates juggling, acrobatics, weapons handling, and live stage combat into this high-intensity performance to tell the historical story. The breathtaking and gravity-defying choreography combines artistry and athleticism into an enthralling performance that fascinates all ages.
Saturday, Nov. 3, 3 p.m. $66, $46, $36. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post, Route 25A, Brookville. (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com or www.tillescenter.org.

In Concert

Poetica Musica
Old Westbury Gardens embraces the season with an uplifting musical program featuring artists-in-residence Poetica Musica in Westbury House.’s Red Ballroom. The concert, entitled “Carnival of the Animals,” features pianist Hayk Arsenyan, cellist Eugene Moye and soprano Eleanor Valkenburg, joined by guest soloist pianist Natasa Mitrovic. They’ll perform Schumann, Poulenc and Mussorgsky, along with Saint-Saëns’ “Carnival of the Animals.” It’s one of Saint-Saëns’ most popular works, written as a bit of fun for friends. The 14-movement piece has now become a cornerstone of classical music. Each of the movements represents a different animal, including a lion, donkey, and elephant, as well as fossils, an aquarium, and an aviary. A pre-concert talk is offered at 7:30 p.m., with a reception on the West Porch following the concert.
Saturday, Nov. 3, 8 p.m.; with a guided tour of Westbury House at 6:45 p.m. Advance ticket purchase is required. $30. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. (516) 333-0048 or www.oldwestburygardens.org.