Habit forming

It isn't often we can preview a completely new and unique form of theatre, but we're doing so today. The Shaolin Monks performance on May 17 and 18 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre will be a first for Malta.

In many ways they will be seen as worthy successors to Bruce Lee et al. But in fact the monks have been practising the combat art of Kung Fu for around 1500 years.

Ever since the founding of Zen Buddhism by the Indian monk Tamo, the monks have been developing the superhuman disciplines that make up this extraordinary and mystical practice. These Zen Buddhist monks from Shaolin appear to be capable of overriding the laws of physics by mere concentration. They also seem blessed with near- superhuman powers.

The monks' traditional exercises have been worked into a two-hour show with special music being added to it. In addition the spectacle is complemented by a sumptuous light show. All this, together with brand-new choreography, goes to presenting audiences with an amazing spectacle, which will linger long in the minds of those who witness it.

The monks of Shaolin Kung Fu are masters at controlling their Chi, the body's imminent energy, which moves along the meridians of every human being. In years of meditation, they have learned to move their Chi to any desired part of the body. Thus they are able to become temporarily insensitive to pain and to appear to suspend the laws of physics.

The youngest participant is a seven-year-old novice, while the oldest is 85-year-old grand master Shi Wancheng.

Booking is now open from the MCC booking office.