Exclusive Interview with Young Dancer Zhang Han: “On Stage, I Am Xi Meng”

BY Songwei Zhen

The Chinese Embassy in Los Angeles is delighted to announce the resounding success of the large-scale dance performance Dance of Oriental, produced by the prestigious China Oriental Performing Arts Group. This extraordinary cultural event recently graced Los Angeles, captivating audiences with its profound artistry and showcasing the enduring beauty of Chinese traditional culture.

Blending tradition with modernity, the performance offered a visual and emotional feast, featuring stunning dance works inspired by China’s rich history and vibrant contemporary spirit. From the ethereal celestial dancers of Dunhuang murals to the refined elegance of Northern Song Dynasty artistry, from the poetic charm of Jiangnan’s water towns to the dynamic energy of the technological age, the program brought the multifaceted world of Chinese dance to life. Through innovative choreography and a harmonious fusion of cultures, Dance of Oriental transformed Los Angeles into a cultural hub, fostering a deeper understanding of China’s artistic heritage.

A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation: Highlights from the Performance

The program featured a series of breathtaking original works that seamlessly integrated traditional aesthetics with creative modern elements:

· Jasmine, a celebrated piece from the 2021 CCTV Spring Festival Gala, brought the elegance of Jiangnan water towns to life.

· Flying Rainbow, inspired by the iconic motifs of Dunhuang culture, celebrated the ancient Silk Road while extending warm blessings to the global audience.

· Excerpts from the dance-poetry drama Only Blue and Green, including Hanlin Academy and the women’s group dance Green and Blue, drew applause for their exquisite choreography.

· Four Diagnostics, infused with traditional Chinese medicine elements, creatively captured the benevolence of ancient healers through humorous and engaging dance language.

· Golden Jade Harmony conveyed Chinese aesthetic principles through the flowing imagery of jade bi, evoking a living painting on stage.

· Extraordinary Vision, a dynamic and modern piece depicting the rapid pace of technological progress through compelling dance movements.

This exceptional performance underscored the vitality of Chinese traditional culture, demonstrating its ability to evolve and thrive in the modern era while inspiring audiences worldwide.

A Bridge for Cultural Exchange: A Dialogue Between China and the United States

Cultural exchange forms the foundation of mutual understanding between nations. Local scholars, audiences, and art enthusiasts expressed their admiration for the Dance of Oriental. One attendee remarked, “This performance beautifully illustrates the boundless charm of Chinese dance—from its rich traditions to its innovative modernity—and highlights the power of cultural dialogue in fostering mutual respect and growth.”

Students and faculty from local art institutions shared their excitement about the performance, describing it as a source of fresh artistic inspiration. A Chinese-American dance studio owner also expressed her pride: “Seeing Chinese dance shine brightly on the international stage fills me with joy. This performance highlights the depth of Chinese culture and allows the world to better understand and appreciate China through the universal language of art.”

Promoting Chinese Culture Worldwide

The China Oriental Performing Arts Group, as the producer of this U.S. tour, carries the mission of preserving and promoting Chinese culture on the global stage. By integrating traditional values, contemporary aesthetics, and innovative creativity, the group showcases the vitality and relevance of Chinese culture in today’s world. The young artists’ exceptional talents and their dedication to cultural exchange exemplify the enduring strength of China’s artistic tradition in fostering global understanding.

From January 10 to January 12, the dance-poetry drama Only Blue and Green will be performed at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center in New York. This masterpiece will bring to life the eternal beauty of Chinese civilization, painting a timeless picture of “Green and Blue Through the Ages, Boundless Mountains and Rivers.”

We warmly invite you to experience this extraordinary performance and join us in celebrating the richness and vibrancy of Chinese culture.