Finalists in NTDTV's International Chinese Classical Dance Competition impressed judges with a high level of technical skill and refined inner strength as they vied for the top prize.
Ms. Michelle Ren of New York won first prize in the adult women's division, garnering a gold statuette and $10,000. Mr. Chen Yiongja of Taiwan won the $10,000 first prize in the adult male division. Second place in the adult female division went to Zheng Xiaofeng. Nie Xiaoie and Liang Min tied for third.
Among the men, Zhang Yijun of Taiwan placed second, with third going to Seongho Cha and Tim Wu.
The junior division gave the audience a taste of the future of the art. Jason Shi won the junior men's top prize and Ling Buohong of Taiwan was second. Placing first in the junior female division was Zhou Yuxuan of Taiwan. Serena Liang of New York was runner up. Mao Xiangen and Cindy Liu shared third place honors.
Mr. Liao, whose family has been involved in theater for generations, provided colorful commentary on the various dances. He said the best qualities for a male dancer show strength with gentleness—how "yin frames the yang." He said that the best dancers present "yang power in yin movements."
A male finalist demonstrated how "yin frames the yang" in his dance by using a fan. Traditionally, the fan was used as a weapon by males when engaged in battle, or to write a poem in peacetime.
The top dancers showed a technique that was very balanced, with full control even in turns and jumps. According to Mr. Liao, a top dancer must demonstrate a high skill level in every aspect of the dance. For example, when lifting the feet, they should rise effortlessly yet with great strength.
Mr. Liao noted that dancers will spend the first two years of their training just on feet and leg basics. Like the foundation of a building, feet support all other movements.
Chinese dances portray characters from literature and history.
A finalist performed the role of Nezha, a well-known character from Journey to the West who caused mischief among the gods of the sea, and is regarded as a naughty boy in Chinese literature.
Mulan was portrayed by several dancers who changed from a delicate feminine heroine to strong female fighter.
Asian people understand the differences between Western and Chinese dance styles which are not easily understood by non-Asians.
Audience member Terri Wu explained that western dancers express everything in the dance and expend great energy while Chinese dancers release energy in a very controlled way. The dancer shows strength by holding back, and not showing everything.
She said that it is similar to the difference between a person showing grief by sobbing loudly, blowing their nose and grabbing others for support versus not shedding tears, holding oneself erect and graciously accepting condolences from others—different approaches to express the same feeling.
The awards ceremony found everyone a winner, with several honorable mentions. A scholarship was also awarded from a foundation that supports the arts to a dance company which has made a great deal of contributions to reviving traditional Chinese dance.
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