Shaolin Dream – Kung Fu Night @ The Michael J. Fox Theatre
To say “hey music fans”, would actually do a dishonour to our audience. Fans of talent, in any discipline, would be closer to the mark. So, indulge me for a moment as I recount an evening that I personally never expected to be a witness to. I speak of the Shoulin Warrior monks. Yes, the real deal, live and glorious in their majesty.
As a child in the late 60’s, early 70’s, I was of a generation that saved up allowance money to see Bruce Lee movies, only to emulate our hero as we kicked the Living shit out of each other all the way home. David Carradaine’s roll as Grasshopper in “Kung Fu”, only deepened the mysticism of these “priests of war”, or better described as “hammers of just causes”.
I must admit, seeing these monks live, in the flesh was nothing short of jaw-dropping! Knowing that each and every member must endure 11 years of self dedication and sacrifice as they seek higher awareness is almost beyond comprehension to those of us in our over-indulgent Western culture.
And so, as humanity Ventures forth into the 21st century, it appears that the wisdom of the Grand Masters ( who lend guidance to their venerable disciples), have opted to issue forth, and reveal, from the mists of time itself, to act as beacons that illuminate paths that are so much more than most of “us”, aspire to Reach
And so, as humanity Ventures forth into the 21st century, it appears that the wisdom of the Grand Masters ( who lend guidance to their venerable disciples), have opted to issue forth, and reveal, from the mists of time itself, to act as beacons that illuminate paths that are so much more than most of “us”, aspire to Reach.
Photo Credits Cherry Unchained
Not many will ever to be able to Reach such lofty goals. I’m sure they understand that. But they may however, allow some of us to admire, and stand in awe of the things they have achieved. It brings Back to memory a mantra I learned as a child…that no man stands taller than when he Stoops to help another. Powerful stuff!
As for the visual show itself, there was the sheer pageantry of the dancing girls in awesome regalia, there was music that somehow blended traditional melodies with contemporary “tech sounds”, and graphic backdrop video. The physical prowess on behalf of the Warriors themselves was literally beyond belief. Only the fact that that most of the verbal communication was in Mandarin, robbed me of understanding the overall message. No fault, no foul. They we’re, after all , appealing to a largely Mandarin audience.
I was honoured to have been in attendance and would urge anyone who wishes to witness things they never would have thought possible to be on the lookout, wherever you reside in a North America, to do whatever it takes to get some tickets. Simply Amazing!
John Sharkey.
John Sharkey
Contributing Jounalist