Prism, a three-side object that refracts light, is an appropriate name for the latest original piece from Beijing Contemporary Dance Theater (BCDT). In the collaborative work, the young dancers comprise the metaphoric prisms, refracting and transforming the vision of three international choreographers into a bright spectrum of colors.
"Prism," scheduled to premiere August 28 in Beijing, features three new works – "Luminous" by Pontus Lidberg of Sweden; "White" by Nadine Thouin from Canada; and "Map of Me" (and "You"), choreographed by Louise Midjord of Denmark. Inspired by the choreographers' different backgrounds and upbringings, the three pieces are far apart in style.
Midjord uses twists of the body to demonstrate the confusion of the mind, creating a work that is both poetic and sensual.
Thouin's “White” is full of power and incorporates the digital elements of film, 3D animation and mixed media.
Lidberg presents a more earthly mood with images and feelings of nature visible within the dancers' movements.
All three choreographers have a strong background in ballet, along with years of experience in modern dance and BCDT directly reflects their approach.
"Ballet dancers performing modern dance – it is the main feature of our troupe," said Wang Yuanyuan, artistic director of BCDT.
Wang is well known for her choreography in Zhang Yimou's ballet “Raise the Red Lantern.” Wanting to combine ballet's elegance, finesse and beauty with modern dance's open and free style, Wang founded China's first ballet-based modern dance troupe, BCDT, last year.
"Ballet training helps dancers develop better muscle definition and a good temperament, but the creative expression of modern dance is more related to social development and is more relevant to young people," she explained.
Since BCDT's founding, the troupe has relied on Wang's inspiration and boasts a rich repertoire of five pieces, including “Stirred from a Dream and Haze.” This time, Wang took a step back and invited a global team for a collaboration piece over the summer, which included daily ballet classes, yoga training and creative development. The young dancers were given a unique opportunity to enlarge their concept of modern dance and uncover further inner potential.
Lidberg has considerable experience with foreign dance troupes, including the Vietnam National Opera and Ballet Theater and the Norwegian National Ballet. His acting experience and choreography skills are demonstrated in his best-known film, “The Rain.”
During the two weeks of creating and rehearsing in late July, Lidberg spent his days in the studio with the dancers exploring their body movements and making notes for the music for the performance piece.
Using a background of Bach, he infused oriental elements and images of trees and clouds. "The dancers here are very fresh, talented, beautiful and fine," he said. "But they don't have experience. Hopefully I can bring the experience to them."
