Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan watch out! Mike Eastman is all about KungFu.
Mike has always had a passion for martial arts and he has found his niche in China.
Recently Mike performed in a martial arts exhibition and was the star. The local TV crew captured the even and followed him from his stretches to his solo act with the bar and sword and his class demonstration with the sword.
Here's Mike's story:
On Wednesday, April 27 my Kung Fu class went to an exhibition. There were over one hundred people there and we were the only kids. Most of the people were doing Tai Chi in large groups, but there were a few other Kung Fu performers. I did a solo act with the bar, sword and did the Chinese sword with the class. I nailed the bar, did so-so on the sword and well on the Chinese sword, needless to say it was a successful day that made my teacher very happy.
The local TV crew was also there filming the event, and at first it seemed like they were getting all the routines. When I looked closely, I realized that their camera was always on me, even when I was stretching. As previously stated, a foreigner studying Kung Fu is amazing news that must be reported. After the event, they asked me some questions and we did a short interview with my teacher translating. They also want to come to my apartment and school to do a 40 minute documentary on this crazy foreigner learning Kung Fu in China.
The event was awesome, it was so much fun to be performing in front of other people. I have not had an adrenaline rush like that in a long time. My whole class was chanting "come on" in Chinese and everyone applauded afterwards. Some of the other routines were also incredible to watch.
Attached in a picture of my class and my teacher. If you want you can make it into a game of where's Waldo? After the competition I went out to dinner with my teacher and ten of his friends, none of which speak English. The food was great and everyone had a great time. These old Chinese people love to order beer and alcohol and refill empty glasses. It is amazing how much you can communicate with someone without speaking the same language. All in all it was an awesome day and learning Kung Fu is really adding to my experience of living in China.
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