Elegance of Ancient Chinese Dances: signature event of LingArt Programme highlights the enchanting journey of classical dance
The dance “Maid of Honour with Fan” portrays the life of genteel ladies in the Qing Dynasty.
Treading feet on the ground to create the beat and dancing with singing was a type of dance usually seen in Han and Tang society.
Dancing with the platters and drums was unique to the Han Dynasty, and expressed the thoughts, rituals and hopes of the people.
In the Pre-Qin period, wizardry existed in the Chu State, and dance was influenced by this religion and cultural ambiance.
In a beautiful display of Chinese culture, the signature event from the LingArt Programme on the Promotion and Inheritance of Chinese Culture, the “Elegance of Ancient Chinese Dances” was presented on 15 March on Lingnan campus by Hong Kong Dance Company. Co-organised by Lingnan University's Office of Student Affairs, this cultural feast attracted over 550 viewers to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Chinese culture.
The seven exquisite pieces ranging from the Pre-Qin Period to the Qing Dynasty highlighted China's aesthetic achievements in the art of dance and traditional culture, from rites, music, and etiquette to costume, poetry, and song. Throughout the evening, an emcee artist delighted the audience with an interactive element, a fun game of beats and rhythms.
Dancing with the platters and drums was unique to the Han Dynasty, and expressed the thoughts, rituals and hopes of the people.
The audience interacts with hand movements and foot-tapping rhythms.
Prof Li Donghui, Associate Vice-President (Student Affairs) of Lingnan University (front right), presents a souvenir to Mr Tsang Kee-kung, MH, Board Chairman of Hong Kong Dance Company (front left).
Prof Li Donghui, Associate Vice-President (Student Affairs), and Ms Connie Wong, Associate Director of Student Affairs of Lingnan University hosted the performance, and Mr Tsang Kee-kung, MH, Board Chairman, Mr Yang Yuntao, MH, Artistic Director, Ms Carrol Ho, Head of Programme and Education, and Ms Jenny Lam, Head of Marketing and Communications of Hong Kong Dance Company were invited as officiating guests.
The event attracted approximately 400 students and 40 staff members from the Arts, Business, and Social Sciences faculties, and the School of Interdisciplinary Studies, as well as from other administrative units of Lingnan. From outside, 50 senior students came from the NT West Elder Academies Cluster, and 65 students and teachers from the Lingnan Dr. Chung Wing Kwong Memorial Secondary School, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.
