DANCE

The development of modern Chinese dance has taken on a dynamic personality. Usually, young people going into dance study ballet and modern dance first, then they study the technique and syntax of traditional Chinese dance. From there they seek out new directions for Chinese style body expressions and movements with an open mind for experimentation. Since about 1970, the original and unique compositions of young dancers have occasioned a renaissance in Chinese dance.

The Cloud Gate Dance Troupe of Lin Hwai-min began by building on a foundation of the Martha Graham school of modern dance and gradually absorbed elements from traditional Chinese opera performance. The Cloud Gate Dance Troupe has performed abroad on a number of occasions, and is viewed internationally as the most representative of modern Chinese dance groups.