- When:
November 9, 2024
Doors open: 6:30 PM
Performance: 7:30 PM - What:
This production features three original pieces, each with distinct meanings, cultural
influences, and styles.
The title work, Legend of The White Snake, is a brand-new original piece with live
music accompaniment by Chinese dulcimer musician Chao Tian. This work reimagines
the classic Chinese folktale, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty. Although set
during the reign of the Qianlong Emperor in the Qing Dynasty, the story has been
retold in various forms over the centuries, including novels, operas, shadow plays,
and movies. Our production puts a modern twist on this timeless love story, which
follows an ordinary boy who falls in love with a beautiful woman who becomes his
devoted wife. There’s only one catch: the beautiful and devoted wife is not human.
She is, in fact, a thousand-year-old snake that has acquired the ability to transform
into a human through centuries of Taoist training. With rich Chinese cultural
influences and a touch of modern dance, our choreographer, Shu-Chen, brings this
romantic story to life.
The second piece, Our Shifa is Us, is an intriguing contemporary dance by guest
choreographer Selin Su Boybeyi, a Turkish-American artist. *Shifa* in Arabic
translates to “cure” or “healing,” and the sentiment behind it offers comfort to those
who are unwell. Through this work, choreographer Selin explores the reality that, in
our daily lives, we inevitably encounter someone in need of healing—whether from
illness, trauma, pain, emotions, or past events. It’s crucial that we not only help and
comfort those in need but also have the courage to reach out for help when we
ourselves are in need.
The third piece, Insight, is an original work inspired by the quote, “When an old
person dies, a library burns down.” This powerful statement reminds us of the
immense wealth of knowledge and experience that older generations possess.
Through her choreography, Shu-Chen expresses the awakening message that we
should respect and care more for our seniors, appreciating all they have done to
shape the world that younger generations will inherit. We need to hear their stories
and learn their lessons so that we can benefit and grow from the wisdom they have
to share.
This production is supported by Virginia Commission for the Arts, ArtsFairfax, and National Endowment for the Arts.
- Tickets:
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