New Tang Dynasty Television’s Chinese New Year Spectacular offers a breathtaking display of traditional Chinese dance, showcasing new talent and drawing inspiration from 5,000 years of Chinese history and diverse folk traditions spanning Mongolia, Tibet, and the Yunnan region.
Acclaimed choreographer Yung Yung Tsuai, a driving force behind the Spectacular since its inception in 2004, brings a unique perspective shaped by her extensive background in contemporary dance. Arriving in the United States in 1970 on a Martha Graham Scholarship, Ms. Tsuai’s continues to teach at the Martha Graham School, bridging Eastern and Western dance traditions.
Tsuai emphasizes the profound meaning of the Spectacular, highlighting the cultural revival it represents. “Over the last century, much of China’s rich traditional culture has been suppressed. People have become disconnected from their heritage,” she explains. “Our performers are driven by a desire to share their culture and traditions, reminding audiences, and themselves, of their Chinese identity.”
Hundreds of dedicated dancers from across the United States and Canada invest countless hours in rehearsals. Ms. Tsuai is one of six expert dance instructors, all graduates of China’s leading dance academies, contributing a combined century of training and experience. This collaborative environment, fostered by experienced teachers, is integral to the project’s success.
The choreography blends traditional themes and styles, often fusing ballet techniques with the expressiveness of classical Chinese dance. Dancers receive rigorous training in both disciplines. Ms. Tsuai notes that ballet enhances the dancers’ ability to master the demanding movements of classical Chinese dance.
Ms. Tsuai believes the Spectacular’s impact extends beyond the captivating dances and costumes. She believes each performance transports the audience to a realm of chivalry, loyalty, and beauty. “We are not merely presenting traditional Chinese culture; we are awakening a longing for beauty and goodness within them,” Ms. Tsuai states.
This profound connection is what draws her back each year, whether as a choreographer or instructor, and it fuels the dancers’ dedication. They pour their hearts into the performances, striving to create an unforgettable experience.
“Art is the nourishment of the soul,” Ms. Tsuai explains. “Art that promotes peace and harmony enriches the spirit. In the past, people lived with a sense of the divine. Daily life was imbued with spirituality. Art that presents beauty and goodness can positively influence people’s interactions and daily lives.”
Ms. Tsuai is confident that audiences will leave NTDTV’s Chinese New Year Spectacular feeling not only entertained but also uplifted and inspired by this feast for the soul.