The large-scale dance drama “Tanghua Fairy” performed by the Sydney Chinese Dance Company, which has been highly anticipated by the audience, was premiered at the Parramatta Riverside Theater in Sydney on June 1, 2013, after more than half a year of intense rehearsals by the entire choreographer and the actors.
The dance drama Tang Flower Fairies is adapted from the novel of the same name, a 52-chapter classical mythological epic written by Chinese-Australian writer and poet Luo Shan. In 2012, the Sydney Chinese Dance Troupe transformed it into a grand six-act mythological dance drama. The story takes place during the flourishing Tang Dynasty, depicting the descent of over ten beautiful flower fairies from the heavens. They engage in a battle of wits and courage against demons that plague the people, ultimately triumphing over evil and restoring peace and happiness to the world.The creative team strived for innovation, blending traditional and modern elements. The music combines the elegance of classical Chinese melodies with a contemporary feel. The choreography incorporates traditional Chinese ethnic and classical dance, including silk ribbon, fan, and sword dances, while also integrating elements of contemporary dance, ballet, and modern dance. Additionally, the performance features influences from yoga, Chinese Tai Chi, and martial arts, along with traditional artistic techniques such as the famous face-changing (Bian Lian) art form.Beyond its captivating choreography, the drama offers a deeply moving love story, an enchanting mythical atmosphere, and meticulously designed stage aesthetics. The dazzling costumes and stunning visual effects promise to deliver a breathtaking experience, inspiring audiences with uplifting energy and a profound appreciation for beauty and heroism.
“Tanghua Fairy” is the first time that overseas Chinese have put their own literary works with profound Chinese cultural heritage on the dance stage. Group leader Yuan Jing said that the New South Wales CRC Multicultural Department has given us Chinese a lot of support. They hope that Sydney Chinese can launch their own works and use dance to show their own cultural characteristics, so that more people can understand, accept and appreciate Eastern civilization, enhance the overall image of Australian Chinese in Australia, and contribute to promoting cultural and artistic exchanges among various ethnic groups. This dance drama is an active and bold attempt to inherit the excellent traditional dance of the Chinese nation and integrate Western modern art. It is a very meaningful event for the Australian Chinese community.
The Sydney Chinese Dance Company has a strong cast, including young and beautiful young people in their twenties, as well as middle-aged elites from all walks of life working in different industries. Most of them are highly educated, and many of them have doctorates and master’s degrees. It is particularly worth mentioning that the Sydney Chinese Dance Troupe has invited famous martial arts coaches Zhang Xiongwei and Zheng Shuai, as well as the famous traditional art face-changing to participate in the performance. Their martial arts stunts have added many highlights to the entire show.
