By love-89.com In a recent press conference on September 29 in Beijing, it was revealed that Director Lu Chuan’s inaugural dance drama, “The Invention of Nature,” is set to premiere at the Poly Theatre in Beijing on October 3 and 4, with three performances that aim to showcase the allure of Chinese technology through captivating stage art.
Transitioning from film to live performance, Lu Chuan’s “The Invention of Nature” aspires to break away from the traditional narrative structures typically seen in dance dramas. Drawing inspiration from the Ming Dynasty scientist Song Yingxing and his seminal work, “The Invention of Nature,” the production weaves together multiple artistic forms, including stage performances, visual imagery, and cutting-edge technology. The performance is divided into chapters such as “Grains,” “Clothing,” “Twisted Grain,” and “Metalworking.” Through an Eastern aesthetic framework, it brilliantly combines elements like “a blank page,” “written text,” and “illustrations” to create a vast scroll that vividly reflects the beauty of ancient Chinese science and technology, the artistry involved, and the enduring spirit of Song Yingxing, promising the audience a truly innovative artistic experience.
Lu Chuan highlighted that the core themes of “scientific spirit” and “national confidence” play a fundamental role in the creation of this drama. He aims to merge Song Yingxing’s quest for individuality with the aesthetic beauty of science and technology featured in “The Invention of Nature,” emphasizing the technological pride of the Chinese populace.
This dance drama maintains a strong connection with the significant narratives and striking illustrations of the renowned Ming Dynasty text, using these as thematic and emotional anchors throughout the choreography, narration, and music. The narrative intricately blends lyrical and storytelling techniques, featuring portrayals of farmers planting, women raising silkworms, and workers smelting. These labor activities have been distilled into fluid movements that dancers express through their physicality and artistry, beautifully capturing the craftsmanship of the Ming era and intricately illustrating the spirit of Ming culture.
Since the national tour kicked off in July, “The Invention of Nature” has already graced 17 shows in cities including Xiamen, Nanjing, Wuhan, Chengdu, and Hangzhou.