The dance drama directed by Lu Chuan is a blend of dance, video art, and cutting-edge stage effects.
Well-known Chinese filmmaker Lu Chuan’s dance drama directorial debut “Tiangong Kaiwu,” will be staged at Shanghai Culture Square from October 25 to October 27.
The dance has already been performed 20 times in eight cities around the country, winning acclaim from both critics and audiences for its thought-provoking story and blend of dance, video art, and cutting-edge stage effects.
Starring Ma Jiaolong, Lu Kedi, Liu Jing and Yao Liang, the drama depicts ancient Chinese scientist Song Yingxing’s life and the various agricultural and handicraft skills he summed up in the famous 17th-century Chinese encyclopedia “Tiangong Kaiwu.”
“Tiangong Kaiwu” showcases agricultural knowledge and handicraft skills from ancient China.
The wisdom and diligence of ancient Chinese people are also depicted in the drama.
Talented dancer Lu Kedi plays Song. He noted that director Lu gave dancers space and freedom to portray the roles, enabling them to present fresh expressions on stage in each performance.
“The ancient Chinese scientist Song is very charming,” Lu said. “His life was full of obstacles, but he was still optimistic and dedicated to studying science, technology and craftsmanship. His achievements benefited future generations.”
Ma Jiaolong, a popular dance blogger and teacher, plays Song in his twilight years.
In recent years, Ma has popularized classic Chinese dance in Paris, London, and other cities.
Ma said he uses his imagination, personality, and body language to depict Song.
The story of ancient Chinese scientist Song Yingxing is still little known around the country.
Dancers perform a scene in “Tiangong Kaiwu.”
He said spread of Chinese dance in the world is still insufficient.
“There are so many styles of Chinese dance that can be showcased to overseas audiences,” Ma added. “I also hope to introduce more wonderful dance dramas with traditional Chinese characteristics to foreigners.”
Director Lu, who is acclaimed for his movies “Kekexili: Mountain Patrol” and “City of Life and Death,” said that Song is not only a scientist, but also a philosopher. His spirit and ideas still inspire people today.
If you go:
Date: October 25-27
Venue: Shanghai Culture Square 上海文化广场
Address: 597 Fuxing Rd M. 复兴中路597号
Tickets: 80-880 yuan
