Penn Wynne Elementary School recently welcomed world-renowned acrobat Li Liu, who captivated students with her mesmerizing one-woman performance showcasing the traditions of Chinese acrobatics!

Liu’s performance featured impressive displays of hand balancing, plate spinning, artistic cycling, ribbon dancing and foot juggling, leaving students in awe. A few lucky Penguins even had the opportunity to join her on stage for an impromptu ribbon dance and plate-spinning demonstration.

Beyond her stunning acrobatics, Liu shared insights about Chinese language and culture, explaining Chinese New Year traditions and teaching students Chinese phrases. She encouraged students to reflect on what it might have been like to grow up in a different time and place.

Born in Shenyang, China, Liu began acrobatic training at age six and went on to win a gold medal at the prestigious Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain in Paris. She performed worldwide with top circus troupes before moving to the U.S. in 2000 to join Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus. Since 2003, Liu has worked as a freelance performer, regularly appearing at NBA and WNBA halftime shows and on Princess Cruise Lines. In 2010, she showcased her talents on The Late Show with David Letterman.

Liu’s visit to Penn Wynne combined acrobatics, culture and storytelling, providing students with an unforgettable experience! Be sure to check out the collection of the images below!