As the Year of the Snake approaches, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center prepares to host a mesmerizing celebration of cultural heritage and artistic brilliance. The Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company is set to take center stage, offering a vibrant tapestry of performances that blend ancient Chinese traditions with contemporary movement.
The upcoming spectacle promises to be a feast for the senses, with each carefully choreographed piece telling a story of wisdom, transformation, and resilience—qualities embodied by the snake in Chinese zodiac lore. Audiences will be transported through a journey of cultural exploration, beginning with the electrifying “Lion in the City.” This opening act ingeniously fuses the traditional Lion Dance with the urban beats of hip-hop, symbolizing the harmonious coexistence of ancient customs and modern life.
As the show unfolds, viewers will be treated to a series of captivating performances. The “Snake Duet” draws inspiration from the legendary tale of the White Snake, weaving a narrative of love, identity, and sisterhood. This powerful piece not only showcases the grace and agility of the dancers but also serves as a poignant commentary on women’s empowerment in society.
The program continues with “Tiger and Water Lilies,” a mesmerizing contrast of strength and beauty. This piece, originally commissioned for ballet dancers, seamlessly blends contemporary ballet techniques with the essence of Asian dance movements, creating a visual poetry that speaks to the duality of nature.
In a nod to shared cultural heritage, “Unfolding” explores the philosophical connections between Chinese and Korean traditions. Inspired by the I-Ching’s concept of constant change, this performance invites the audience to reflect on life’s continuous journey and the transformative power of movement.
The evening reaches its crescendo with the premiere of a new dance specifically created for the Year of the Snake. Choreographed by Ying Shi, the Company’s Director of Traditional Dance and Preservation, this vibrant piece is set to the jubilant “Dances of the Golden Snake.” It promises to be a joyous celebration of community and shared happiness, incorporating traditional Han Chinese dance steps and props that are sure to leave the audience with beaming smiles.
As the final act, “Dragon Festival” descends upon the stage in a spectacular display of color and movement. This reimagining of the traditional Chinese Dragon Dance serves as a powerful blessing for prosperity and balance in the coming year, leaving spectators in awe of the rich cultural tapestry they’ve witnessed.
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center’s Lunar New Year celebration is more than just a performance—it’s an immersive experience that honors tradition while embracing innovation. It’s a reminder of the snake’s revered qualities: wisdom, agility, and the capacity for personal growth and adaptation.
Don’t miss this extraordinary cultural event taking place on Saturday & Sunday, February 1 & 2 at 2pm, at the Victoria Theater lizzie & jonathan tisch stage, 1 Centre Street. It’s an opportunity to start the Lunar New Year with an unforgettable celebration of artistry, heritage, and community spirit.
