The monks of Shaolin
Kung Fu

The mysterious Zen monastery of Shaolin in the heart of China has been the spiritual centre of Zen Buddhism and the monks’ training centre for the mastery of Kung Fu for more than 1,500 years. For millions of devout Buddhists, it is a sacred place, and for those interested in martial arts, it is the centre of energy. For many hundreds of years, interested students have been coming to the monastery from an early age to find their master and be initiated into the secrets of traditional martial arts by him. Those who find their master have the chance to attain spiritual maturity and physical strength, which enables them to masterfully control their Qi (life energy).

But the path to becoming a Shaolin master is difficult and long: years of practice, perseverance and hardship are required, and a life according to the strict rules of Damo, the mysterious founder of the monastery, is a prerequisite. “Shami’s Way to Shaolin” tells the story of a child’s quest for mastery. The show demonstrates the fascinating and mysterious exercises of the monks, their mastery of Hard Qi Gong, has sticks and iron bars smashed on their bodies and shows that even the most sensitive parts of the body can withstand the tips of spears. It shows the humble monastery life and the hard training in fascinating video clips, filmed at the original location. The show tells the story of the young disciple (Shami) being accepted into the temple, the tests of courage he has to face and the deep relationship between disciple and master. The monks teach the audience simple breathing exercises and take them on an emotional journey that proves that it is possible for anyone to master the body with the mind.

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