Yang Liping

“The Peacock,” a dance drama choreographed by renowned dancer Yang Liping, will be staged at the Pingshan Theater in early 2025.

Born in Dali, Yunnan Province, Yang is known both domestically and internationally for the peacock dance, a traditional folk dance from Yunnan that mimics the graceful gestures of peacocks. From “Spirit of the Peacock,” “The Peacock,” and “Love of the Peacock” to “Peacock of Winter,” her captivating interpretations of the creature have won her the title of “Peacock Princess of China.” 

“The Peacock” is adapted from Yang’s original solo work “Spirit of the Peacock.” The latter won her the top prize at the Second National Dance Competition in 1986, and she performed at the closing ceremony of the 11th Asian Games in Beijing in 1990. 

A scene from “The Peacock.”

Through its four chapters — spring, summer, autumn, and winter — this dance drama tells a poignant story of life and love. It also reflects the choreographer’s innovative interpretation of Chinese aesthetics and her dedication to preserving traditional Chinese culture though stage artistry. Though Yang has gradually moved backstage in recent years, she will star in the “winter” chapter. 

Tim Yip, the acclaimed Hong Kong art director and Academy Award winner for Best Art Direction for the 2000 martial arts epic “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” serves as art director for the dance drama.

Time: 8 p.m., Jan. 17-18, 2025; 3 p.m., Jan. 18-19, 2025

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

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

SkyShuttle: Line 1 to Culture Center Station (文化聚落站), Exit A