The National Center for the Performing Arts and the Beijing Dance Academy present “Spring in Yangjialing” – a dance poetry drama that has taken the audience by storm since its debut in 2022. After numerous rounds of refinement and improvement, this production is set to return to the stage from May 9th to 12th at the National Center for the Performing Arts.
Inspired by the art of Yan’an woodcut prints, “Spring in Yangjialing” beautifully weaves together classic works from printmaking pioneers such as Gu Yuan, Yan Han, and Ji Guisen. The stage transforms these prints into stunning visual displays, accompanied by the melodious northern Shaanxi style music and contemporary Han folk dance styles.
The storyline follows the ideological transformation of literary and artistic youth during the spring in Yangjialing. Characters from various artistic backgrounds travel to Yan’an and immerse themselves in revolutionary practice, leading to profound ideological changes and spiritual growth. Through three chapters titled “Thick Soil”, “Dawn”, and “Eternal Life”, the play explores the journey of these artists as they integrate into the fiery life of Yan’an.
The production is a collaborative effort between the National Center for the Performing Arts’ BDA Youth Dance Company, Beijing Dance Academy’s Department of Chinese Ethnic and Folk Dance, the School of Creativity, and the Department of Chinese Classical Dance. Led by chief directors Zhang Xiaomei and Zhang Yunfeng, the creative team includes talented individuals such as screenwriter Xu Rui, composers Cheng Yuan and Xie Peng, and visual director Ren Dongsheng.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the power and charm of fine art at the National Center for the Performing Arts. Join us for an unforgettable journey back to Yan’an and immerse yourself in the spring breeze of literature and art with “Spring in Yangjialing”.