Zhao Lizhi

   Zhao, Lizhi had a vision for his troupe and for the Chinese Arts as well. He wanted to take them to the outside world. He began to recruit the best young performers in Shanghai and contacted companies in the United States, Europe, and other parts of Asia to establish tours for his troupe. His original vision took form as the "Branson Project". Since 1998, the New Shanghai Circus has had 6 very successful years in Branson, Missouri and now considers this to be their second hometown.

In 2000 Mr. Zhao Lizhi was awarded a membership in the prestigious Excellency in Both Ethics and Arts in acrobatics field. In 2001 he was elected to be the Representative of the Chinese Artistic League and attended the annual meeting in Beijing. This is the most important position to be awarded to an individual in his profession. In 2001 Zhao, Lizhi and the New Shanghai Circus were nominated as small business of the year in Branson, Missouri. This was the first international company to be given that honor. In 2002, Mr. Zhao, Lizhi received an honorary doctorial degree by William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri. In May, 2003, the city of St. Louis, Missouri honored him when the Mayor of St. Louis awarded him with the prestigious title "A Friend to St. Louis".