The history of the China National Opera & Dance Drama Theater can be traced back to the Yan'an Lu Xun Academy of Fine Arts founded in 1938 and formally named in 1964. 2024 marks the 86th anniversary of its establishment and the 60th anniversary of its naming. Recently, the China National Opera & Dance Drama Theater has been intensively rehearsing for "Hua Zhang: Tribute to Sixty Years of Classic", a classic dance drama gala. Iconic dance segments from several popular dance dramas launched since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China will be presented in the performance.

"Hua Zhang: Tribute to Sixty Years of Classic" incorporates classic segments from several dance dramas including "Confucius," "When We Were Young," and "Orphan of Zhao" and so on. Director Li Shibo interconnects these segments, offering a fresh perspective on the progress of dance drama art and the infinite possibilities of the future, showcasing the inner world and spiritual pursuits of dancers. This production combines classical charm with modern rhythms, romantic love with patriotic sentiment, enabling reflection on history while also aspiring towards the future.

"This performance aims to maintain the authenticity of classic dance segments while presenting fresh interpretations for the modern era," explained Li Shibo. He introduced that the production will enhance the theatricality of the stage, making full use of the expansiveness of stage time and space. It will create multidimensional and multilayered scenarios where history and reality intertwine, individuals and groups converse, and time and dreams accompany each other. "We aim to let more audiences understand our theater, get closer to our dancers, and showcase the unique charm of Chinese dance drama art," he added.

During the performance, a new generation of dancers from the China National Opera & Dance Drama Theater, including Yang Siyu, Feng Shiyang, Sun Fubo, Zhang Di, Wang Zi, Dou Lvfang, and Hao Ruqi, will all grace the stage.

The premiere of this performance will take place from June 7th to 8th at the Golden Sands Lake Grand Theater in Hangzhou. Subsequently, it will embark on a nationwide tour, with the specific date for its appearance in Beijing to be announced later.

Translator: NIU Lihua

Reviewer: JIANG Wenyi