Chinese Dance Repertoires

The Archery Dance

This is a representative dance of bravery and courage that tells the story of the uprising of a small martial arts society against the Qing dynasty. This dance depicts a group of young guerilla soldiers practicing their archery skills as they prepare to wage battle against oppression.

(approx. 6 min.)

Butterfly Lovers

A national drama dance inspired by a famous historical tale of a pair of lovers. They were madly in love but the family’s objection led to their tragic end by jumping off a cliff. They instantly transformed into a pair of butterflies, allowing them to spend their newly transformed lives together forever.

(approx. 7 min.)

Flying Apsara

This is the very first dance choreographed according to the paintings from the ancient city of Dun Huang. It depicts an apsara (similar to a goddess) flying in and out of the clouds in the sky. The sliding and gliding movements suggest images of lightness and playfulness.

(approx. 7 min.)

Palace Dances of the Tang Dynasty

Tang rulers brought unprecedented unity, stability and prosperity to China that in turn fostered a remarkable golden age. These dances are a re-creation of what palace dances were like in the Tang dynasty. The dances reflect the tranquility and peace that dominated during this period.

(approx. 10 min.)

The Painted Sculpture of Dun Huang

This dance tells a story of a beautiful sculpture in Dun Huang slowly coming to life. She begins to explore this world and enjoys every moment of her surroundings. Unfortunately, all things come to an end; sadly, she must become a sculpture again.

(approx. 7 min.)

The Pipa Goddess

This is a dance based on the murals painted in the caves of Dun Huang during the Tang Dynasty. One of the paintings depicts a goddess playing a traditional Chinese musical instrument, the pipa across her back. This lost style of dance has a characteristic “S” shape to the body through out the piece.

(approx. 5 min.)

The Return of Mulan

A story of the loyal and patriotic daughter of a military general who disguised herself to take her father’s place in battle. Her bravery and success in strategic decisions led to the victory of an important battle. This dance shows her victorious return from the war in full military armor.

(approx. 10 min.)

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