Original Dance 'Home' Explores Fragility and Resilience

The original dance theater production "Home" premieres at the Shanghai International Dance Center Theater this week.

Directed and choreographed by Zhang Zhenguo, the piece uses striking physical vocabulary and avant-garde expression to offer a fresh exploration of the familiar theme of "home."

The work focuses on people supporting each other amid fragmentation. When external turmoil shatters everyday stability, home becomes not only a haven for body and mind but also a witness to partings and loss – while carrying hope and reshaping the spirit.

Zhang previously won the highest score in the contemporary dance category at the China Dance Lotus Awards for his solo "The Other Side." "Home" is his first full-length dance theater piece as an independent director.

Rising dancer Zhang Yashu plays the role of "woman" who constantly tries to maintain family relationships through the act of embracing. Dancer Li Yu plays the "man," and there is also a "child" character.

Zhang explains that the child's intrusion symbolizes the goodwill and strength of ordinary people to embrace and tolerate others, even in the midst of war.

Musician Chen Lin's avant-garde electronic music gives "Home" a unique auditory texture. After its premiere in Shanghai, "Home" will embark on a national tour.

Performance info

Dates: May 28-29, 7:30pm

Tickets: 80-680 yuan

Venue: Shanghai International Dance Center Theater 上海国际舞蹈中心

Address: 1650 Hongqiao Rd 虹桥路1650号