“Dance of Oriental” Kicks off in Los Angeles
Los Angeles — The large-scale dance show “Dance of Oriental” presented by the China Oriental Performing Arts Group (also known as the Oriental Song and Dance Troupe) was grandly staged at the Los Angeles Music Center on the evening of January 4.
This performance was presented by the original crew of “A Tapestry of a Legendary Land”, and was a dance extravaganza specially created by Oriental Performing Arts Group for this North American tour. The performance repertoire covered dances of different characteristics, including Chinese classical dance, ethnic minority dance, folk dance, multiple clips from Only Green, and avant-garde experimental dance choreography, presenting a visual feast for Los Angeles audiences while also introducing traditional Chinese culture to the western.
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 waves of 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, depicted 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 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 so brightly on the international stage fills me with joy. This performance not only highlights the depth of Chinese culture but also 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.
