Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the efforts of the Qiqihar Circus to attract younger audiences by blending traditional training with modern technology, highlighting the challenges and strategies involved in this transition [2][5]. Group 1: Historical Context and Achievements - Qiqihar Circus, with a history of 73 years, is one of the few state-owned acrobatic troupes registered under the name "circus" in China [2]. - The circus has gained international recognition, participating in various competitions and winning awards, such as the bronze medal at the 2007 Second International Circus Festival in Spain [3][4]. - The troupe has been designated as a "National Cultural Export Key Enterprise" by multiple government departments, reflecting its cultural significance [4]. Group 2: Training and Talent Acquisition - The rigorous training and pursuit of excellence are fundamental to the circus's unique artistic style, characterized as "passionate, explosive, rough, and bold" [4]. - There has been a decline in new talent entering the circus, with only about 13-14 new recruits in the past decade, attributed to parents' reluctance to let their children endure the hardships of acrobatics [6]. - The circus has started recruiting from the Hebei Wuqiao Acrobatic Art School, focusing on students who are committed to making acrobatics a lifelong career [6]. Group 3: Challenges and Perceptions - The perception of circus performances among younger generations is often limited to outdated animal acts, leading to a lack of interest in attending shows [7][9]. - Young performers express the need for the circus to adapt to contemporary tastes, suggesting the incorporation of elements like "Guochao" (national trend) and "anime" into performances [10][11]. Group 4: Modernization and Competition - The Qiqihar Circus is facing competition from market-driven circuses that quickly adapt to modern audience preferences, utilizing advanced technology and immersive experiences [11]. - The Harbin Sunac Paradise Circus, for example, employs 360-degree surround light technology and immersive theater design, appealing more to younger audiences [11]. - The Qiqihar Circus acknowledges the need for improvements in stage design and branding to enhance its appeal to the younger demographic [11].