THE word 'circus' does not begin to describe what's on offer when The Chinese State Circus comes to town.

With balance-and-sinew-defying acrobatics as well as truly deadly martial arts on display, the circus is a breathtaking family night out offering a completely fresh take on the human body's capacity.

Plate spinning might sound like something you'd see at your local on a Thursday night, but when eight separate plates are spun while your head is balancing on the head of your partner, it becomes impossible to look away.

Watch as five bricks are smashed with a hammer, when the bricks are lying on somebody's head.

Shake your head in disbelief as eight acrobats, each one with a chair, balance on top of each other, while still managing to smile.

The whole spellbinding evening is wrapped up in stunning choreography, set design and costumes.

It might well be a cliche but there's something (and more) for everyone.

Records show that acrobatic arts began to flourish in the east more than 2,500 years ago when the Chinese began to play games of juggling balls and balancing objects on their foreheads.

The Han Dynasty writer of the period between 200 BC and 200 AD describes these early acrobatics.

They included 'people balancing on a high pole, jumping through hoops with dextrous skills and rope walking' so there is little wonder that the Chinese State Circus is of such a high standard - they've been at it for thousands of years.

The circus came into existence as we know it today in 1949 when it secured government support and there are now over 200 official acrobatic organisations throughout the vast country, which means there is no shortage of applicants when a vacancy comes up in the circus.

Well worth a visit, The Chinese State Circus can be seen at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff from Wednesday, March 27 to April 6. Performances at 5pm and 8pm Monday to Friday; 2pm and 5pm Saturday and Sunday, Good Friday and Easter Monday.

Tickets: Adults £20 to £8, concessions available.

* Pictured: A member of the Chinese Circus