The history of Chinese literature can be traced back to the creation of Shijing (also known as the Classic of Poetry). This anthology of songs, poems and religious hymns stretches from the first Western Zhou Dynasty to the middle of the Spring and Autumn Period (from the 11th century to the 6th century BC). Guó fēng (Airs of the States) is the only one of the four sections of Shijing that is a compilation of shorter works with simpler language. Most are ancient folk songs that speak in the vernacular of the common people. This repertoire is based on the love songs of Guó fēng. The works present the eventful lives of the people of ancient China, featuring dances rarely seen either in China or abroad.
Guó fēng contains folk songs that tell individual stories which the choreographers have brought together to form a superb drama. It gives us the chance to experience how a combination of well-known and fresh themes can together express compassion and joy, leading us to discover the warmth of Chinese culture. The piece also brings modern dance elements to poetic thought, expressed through the language of movement. This movement communicates the sentiments of the heart and soul. The production is not merely the imitation of the movements of the ancient Chinese, but rather an original creation based on classic themes.

Presented by: National Dance Theatre