Presented by: Mao Cui, Associate ProfessorBeijing Dance Academy
Date: Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Location: Henderson Room, Michigan League


Abstract:

Since the 1980s, China’s society and economy have undergone massive change, and the speed of modernization has continuously increased. This means that the urban-rural divide has required greater attention. In the midst of political, economic, and legal modernization, how can the deep philosophical outlook, moral and cultural system, and artistic spirit of China’s long-lasting rural cultural model continue to draw its worldview and values from tradition? This is a problem not only for those who work in the realm of ideas but also has become a keen focus of attention for dance artists around the globe to explore through new dance creation. This talk will explore the work of several young contemporary dance choreographers based in Beijing who are currently attracting significant attention in China. Specifically, it will investigate the different ways these young choreographers are engaging with tradition in their work.


About the speaker:

Mao Cui is Associate Professor of Dance Studies in the Humanities Institute at the Beijing Dance Academy. She holds a Ph.D. in Dance Studies and is a member of the China Dancers Association, and she has been the recipient of several prestigious national and Beijing-level awards for her research and teaching.