Rec List: Chinese Modern Dance Videos

[forestofglory]

I have recently figured out that it helps to manage my RSI to do things in short bursts and then take a break, which means that I've been looking for hands free things to do during short breaks. Videos are good for this, especially ones that aren't too wordy (It helps to not interrupt my focus as much).

I especially like watching Chinese modern dance, especially those influenced by classical Chinese dance. It's just so beautiful! So I thought it would be fun to share a few of my favorite Chinese dance videos here. Some of these are recordings of stage performances, and some of them are created for video with fun special effects.

Beyond the Stream (5:42) — I love the costumes in this, the way they are layered with black and white to involve cranes, and those sleeves are so swooshy!

Dance: A Journey of Music (4:35) —This one is fun, a bit stompy with a lot of percussion. Plus there’s a cool stone bridge and a water buffalo.

文化自信，中国东方演艺集团《只此青绿》演活了千里江山图 (7:55) —I love the way this one evokes the colors of the blue-green painting tradition.

2019 IPAA Festival Sword Dance (14:35) —Sword dancing! This one is a little longer, but I thought it was very cool. I love the way their moments remind me of wuxia!

Blending Chinese Calligraphy with Dance (2:25)—This is a fun one, where the dancer is representing the ink as a scholar writes a poem.

Comments

[elwendell]

So much goodness to unpack here.

The first one was such a good use of the female style of Chinese dance. I am not usually a fan, but this worked really well.

The second one was wonderful. In contrast, I like the male style of Chinese dance. Also, the landscape played as big a part as the dancers themselves.

The Sword Dance didn't do much for me, until the guy entered. Also, that silk robe moved like water. I want one.

The last one. Wow! I find it interesting to consider that many of the moves in all Chinese dance would simply not be a thing, without the invention of silk fabric.

Thanks for sharing all of these.

[forestofglory]

I'm glad you enjoyed most of these!

[suncani]

Thanks for sharing! This isn't something I would have thought to look for on my own so it's a lovely taster and now I'm keen to go see what else I can find <3

[forestofglory]

I'm happy you liked these! I admit I first started watching these because of the YouTube algorithm. If you do find any you especially like please share them with me!

[suncani]

Will do :)