‘Crested Ibises’

Shanghai Dance Theater’s signature dance drama “Crested Ibises” shows the elegance of the crested ibis, an endangered species, and calls for animal protection. Traditional Chinese dance gestures are used in upper body movements, while ballet and Western dance elements are featured in the footwork.

The ibis is a white-feathered, long-legged water bird, with a bald red face. At one time, the bird was widespread in East Asia. It is prized for its beautiful appearance, its elegance and its symbolism as a sign of good luck and happiness. However, urban development and hunting activities have seriously reduced their number.

Chen Feihua, president of the theater, said the crested ibis in the performance is bright but fragile, filled with human emotions. The work encourages humankind to face up to the responsibility of caring for the natural world.

Time: 8 p.m., Aug. 18-20

Scenes from "Crested Ibises." Photos from Pingshan Theater's WeChat account

‘The Eternal Wave’

Another signature work from Shanghai Dance Theater, “The Eternal Wave,” is based on the real story of Chinese revolutionary martyr Li Bai. In 1938, Li and his wife risked their lives as they secretly transmitted intelligence information via radio to Chinese revolutionaries. Eventually, Li sent out his last transmission before bravely sacrificing his life.

Many spy stories in films, TV and novels have achieved great success in recent years, but it is the first time for a dance drama to take on such a subject. The stage design is filled with typical Shanghai elements such as old houses, narrow alleyways, newspaper stands and tailor shops. The well-polished details have made the work real and attractive to audience members. Plus, there is no dialogue and dancers have to use body language to explain the spying and war plots.

Time: 8 p.m., Aug. 25-26; 2:30 p.m., Aug. 26-27

Scenes from "The Eternal Wave."

Booking: WeChat account “PingShanTheatre”

Venue: Pingshan Theater, Pingshan District (坪山大剧院)

Metro: Line 14 to Pingshan Square Station (坪山广场站), Exit D1