Environmental themes in Chinese dance theater: experience and perspectives

Abstract

This article highlights the involvement of Chinese dance theater in environmental protection. The author analyzes the ecological concepts of the work of three outstanding Chinese choreographers Yang Liping, Wang Yuanyuan, Tong Ruirui, whose works consistently embody the idea of the development of beautiful China, the ecological balance between human and nature, and the humankind’s adaptation to the new conditions of urban digital civilization. The purpose of the study is to investigate the existing experience of implementing Environmental themes in Chinese dance theater, as well as to outline the role of the Chinese ballet theater in the development of environmental consciousness. The research materials were the following stage works: “Pilgrimage to Lhasa”, “Two trees”, “Fire”, “Daughter of the country”, “Spirit of the Peacock”, “Romantic peacock”, “Echoes of Shangrila”, “Dynamic Yunnan”, “The Spirit of the Birds” (director and choreographer Yang Liping); “Haze” (director and choreographer Wang Yuanyuan); “Deep Memory”, “The World of Flowers”, “Then”, “The Earth”, “Goddess of Luo River”; ecological trilogy “Soaring Wings: Journey of the Crested Ibis”, “The Origin of the Big River”, “Deep AI You” (director and choreographer Tong Ruirui). The conclusions summarize the main characteristics of studied artists’ performances on environmental themes, as well as outline the prospects for further promotion of environmental awareness by means of dance theater. According to the author, the dance theater of China can continue to participate in environmental protection actively. The following forms of work turned out to be the most promising: further staging of choreographic performances on ecological topics, ecological production of the plays, open-air performances in natural areas and parks, original dance events in rural areas, choreographic open-air master classes, access to eco-responsible dance productions in online format, participation of ballet dancers in complex activities (ecological festivals, environmental photo sessions, media-programs or performances etc.).