Dream of the Past: Ancient Chinese Court Dances

Following its sold-out premiere in 2016, the Chinese Classical Dance Department of Beijing Dance Academy joins hands with the Hong Kong Dance Company to present a triumphant re-run of Dream of the Past: Ancient Chinese Court Dances. The performance will take you back to the ancient world of emperors, court dancers and warriors, citing archaeological references to their music, etiquette, costume and literature. Opening with the rhythmical steps of young girls from the delta region in the 3rd to 6th century in “Spring Excursion”, it is followed by “Small Victory Dance”, a dance trio co-choreographed by Emperor Xuanzong and his beloved Consort Yang Yuhuan to show off the majestic bearing of the Tang armoured women. Epitomising the Chinese perception of beauty, “Chu-style Waist Dancing” explores dance styles predating the Qin dynasty (before the 3rd century BCE). The Han dynasty will also be showcased in four captivating excerpts from the dance drama Dancing Girl of the Bronze Sparrow Pavilion.