Clowning around receives official approval
Print Edition
STREET performer Wang Shiping could yesterday concentrate on his clown balloon artist act in downtown Jing’an District without having to keep looking over his shoulder for urban management officers.
For the 31-year-old is among the first group of street performers in Shanghai to be licensed by the city government.
Under a one-month trial, the eight performers — clowns, magicians and singers — are displaying their talents at Jing An Kerry Centre.
On Saturday, the eight, who include Wang’s brother Wang Luping and Paul Belanger, an American who also has a clown balloon act, began giving performances under the license issued by the Shanghai Performing Arts Association.
District officials said the move is an attempt to tackle complaints about unlicensed performers.
These can range from blocking streets and causing disturbances, to running off midway through making a balloon sculpture after urban management officers show up.
The license now allows them to perform on designated streets in Jing’an. After the trial, management will make a decision on the long-term future of the initiative.
The association said street performers have become a special attraction in cities such as in New York, Paris and Moscow, and are an important element in Shanghai becoming an international cultural metropolis.
However, this must come under strict administration, officials said.
The association spent a year watching acts and selecting the final eight from more than 100 candidates. They were chosen on their skills and personal qualities, said officials.
Licensed artists also received professional training, as part of the association’s requirements.
“We had an interview and had to demonstrate our skills,” Wang said. “Officials from the association and professional artists came to test us.”
Wang, who came to Shanghai from his hometown in north China’s Shanxi Province at the age of 19, said the clown balloon act started as a hobby.
But about six years ago, after teaming up with his brother to run their Brother Arts Balloon team, it became his job.
Wang, said being licensed will make his work easier.
“It was tough performing on the streets when we weren’t legal. The license is a big step as we can now perform freely and it means that people place more trust in us.
“We don’t have a stable income but it’s enough and we have fun,” Wang told Shanghai Daily.
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