CHINA NOW presents an extensive programme showcasing performers in a collection of tours, single-performances and workshops from world-renowned Chinese dance companies.
Beijing Modern Dance Company ; Oath-Midnight Rain choreographed by Gao Yanjinz
The CHINA NOW performances from 15 of their leading dancers form the company's UK debut.
The Company's repertory draws from a broad range of influences from folk dance and martial artists to classical ballet and Chinese Opera as well as contemporary dance techniques.
This show is called Oath-Midnight Rain and it draws upon Buddhist philosophies of rebirth and the traditions of Yin and Yang. Its innovative Western choreography captures traditional and modern aspects of both cultures.
The company is also providing participatory workshops for students and adults interested in dance and Chinese culture. They will incorporate elements of traditional Chinese taiqui, martial arts and energy/breath work in a rigorous modern dance class.
The London show is in association with China in London.
Akram Dance Company; Bahok
Bahok, the long awaited new group choreography by Akram Khan sees him join forces with long-time collaborators writer Hanif Kureishi and composer Nitin Sawhney. The work will bring together a new company of nine dancers in collaboration with the National Ballet of China. A documentary will be released in the UK that follows the project from its first auditions in April 2007 through to rehearsals and the premiere in January 2008 in Beijing.
Guangdong Acrobatic Troupe; Acrobatic Swan Lake
Swan Lake gets a radical makeover from this unique Chinese company which combines classical ballet and traditional acrobatics to create a spectacular interpretation of the popular ballet. Highlights include Black Swans dancing on high wires and the Swan Princess dancing en pointe on her partner's head.
The National Ballet of China; Swan Lake and Raise the Red Lantern
The Company makes its first visit to the Royal Opera House, London with Natalia Makarova's ravishing new production of Swan Lake as well as the ensemble's recent accomplishment Raise the Red Lantern, dance theatre directed by film-maker Zhang Yimou.
The China Disabled People's Performing Art Troupe; One Thousand Hands Boddhivistas
The CDPPAT's signature piece features 21 hearing impaired dancers. The company comprises 88 performers with hearing impairments, visual impairments and physical disabilities. 30 members will tour the UK.
Beijing Dance and Drama Opera House
The company presents a special performance by child dancers of samples of traditional and contemporary Chinese dance for Chinese New Year at the British Museum.
