Craning Neck, Hidden Silence

Was invited to a Beijing 2006 Tourism show which comprised of a few countries representing themselves with a 'show' (i.e. Riverdancing for Ireland). It was a strange mix with working class people for it's audience. Pop singers from asia, a massive group of Australians whose every dance set was a patriotic chant (to Australia) and a strange set by 30 little girls dancing uncannily in sync to fast beating rythmic music which was actually very cute and funny. The Riverdancing by Irish and Chinese performers (respectively) were good though the stage and seating were so crap that we couldn't see their feet most of the time.

Shows apart, I have spent some of my time in quiet places as in The White Cloud Temple, The Great Wall of China and am heading off to The Summer Palace in a moment after i finish my coffee. I read that physical personal space doesn't exist for Chinese people, but exists in the mind. I think these places, while being there, are best experienced with the heart and mind.





- J