Since launching in 2008, TAO Dance Theater has taken China by storm, performing at every modern dance festival in the country and touring to prestigious Sadler’s Wells and the American Dance Festival. Led by Artistic Director and choreographer Tao Ye, the company’s work is renowned for its technical virtuosity and for challenging the conventions of modern dance. In the hypnotic, minimalist 2, Tao and fellow performer Duan Ni flow like quicksilver to a soundscape inspired by the rhythm and cadence of their conversations.

Pre-Performance Talk with Alison Friedman (English only)
Saturday, Nov 24, 2012
6:30 p.m. – Le Salon

“Between a Rock and a Hard Place: Carving Out Space for Modern Dance in China.”

Alison Friedman is the founding director of Ping Pong Productions, a producing and consulting organization headquartered in Beijing with the mission of cultural diplomacy.

The pre- show chat will address the current situation of modern dance in China in the context of domestic economic forces and market pressures from abroad. Her presentation includes photos and dance excerpts, examines the evolving Chinese performing arts context and explores influences that are encumbering the development of modern dance in China. She also offers observations for what must happen for a homegrown modern dance “genius” to develop in China.