Contortion is an unusual form of physical acrobatics which involves the dramatic bending and flexing of the human body. Usually, but not always, contortionists will be naturally flexible which is enhanced with rigorous training.
One of the best is 16 year old He Qing Qing, featured contortionist with Cirque de Chine in Sevierville. She has been studying and practicing contortion since she was 6 years old.
Bruce McCamish is the owner of an Aerial Photography business and a 9 year resident of Seymour. However his connection with the area goes much deeper as his family was among the first settlers in the community.
On Thursday night, August 13, Bruce McCamish met He Qing Qing. “Monica Jones at the Smoky Mountain Palace has been trying for 3 years to persuade me to come see the show,” Bruce said. “I finally went last Thursday night and when I walked out of the theater I felt I should be in Las Vegas. This is a huge production! To have a show of this magnitude in East Tennessee is a true treasure.”
Bruce added, “He Qing Qing’s act really caught my attention. It is so beautiful to watch. She is so very graceful and watching her movement is witnessing a form of art. The culture of China is demonstrated throughout the entire show”
It was He Qing Qing’s parent’s idea for her to try acrobatics as it would give her a future. If she didn’t like it, they said, she would be free to drop out of the school. Not only did she like it but she accepted it as her way of life. After her performing days are over, she wants to stay in acrobats as a teacher.
He Qing Qing was born with a flexible body which led to her coach suggesting she try contortion. Once she began the training she discovered the act began to feel natural.
After 8 months of intensified training, she was able to begin some contortion performances. Even today, 10 years later, she has to practice everyday to keep the body in condition.
Acrobats have afforded the young lady an opportunity to see the world. She has performed in Korea, India, Japan, Germany, Spain, Russia, Malta, The Philippines and finally the USA.
Her impression of America came from American television shows and movies seen in China. She was expecting a big crowded city but was happy when she saw the countryside and breathed the fresh air. She has been here for five months and maybe become a little bit Americanized; she stated her favorite American food was Cherry Coke.

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