The Songshan Mountain known as spiritual “Centre of Heaven and Earth” features a significant Buddhist presence. It is home to the Shaolin Monastery, traditionally considered to be the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Kung-Fu martial arts. Standing on the top of the Cypress Hill, the Shaolin Flying Monks Theatre’s architectural and conceptual image pays respect to the surroundings and the sites’ historic heritage.

handcrafted stone steps from the local quarry. The exterior combines both aesthetic and functional aspects. the Stair surface, apart from its usual purpose, is designed to continue the topography of territory, adjust the natural lighting for interior and to provide massive air flow for engines. Upper levels of stairs shape the embracement for the stage – an amphitheatre with a wind tunnel in the middle.

YEAR: 2017
TYPE: CULTURE
STATUS: BUILT
TEAM: Ints Mengelis, Karlis Melzobs, Dina Suhanova,
Valters Murans, Janis Ielejs, Mara Igaune
LOCATION: DENGFENG, CHINA
PHOTO: ANSIS STARKS