Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney presents Hong Kong Dance Company’s “Convergence”

This July, Sydney audiences are invited to experience Convergence, a stunning fusion of martial arts and Chinese dance, brought to life by Hong Kong Dance Company at the Seymour Centre. There are three performances from 12 to 13 July, this transcendent production combines power, speed, and aesthetics in a display that has profound implications for dancers and choreographers globally.

Presented by Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney, Convergence features choreography by the company’s award-winning Artistic Director, Yang Yuntao. It is the culmination of a collaborative study since 2018 into the rich traditions of Chinese dance and martial arts, integrating styles such as Hung Kuen, Choy Lay Fut, and Fujian White Crane.

Artistic Director Yang Yuntao shares his vision: “Convergence is not just a performance; it is an evolution of our artistic journey. It represents a break from our past, charting new courses and remoulding ourselves. This fusion of external movement and internal consciousness alters our physical condition and deepens our exploration of truth and beauty in performance.”

“This production challenges our dancers to transcend traditional boundaries, offering a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is visually mesmerising. We are excited to bring this new expression of strength and beauty to Sydney, appealing to an audience that values both innovation and tradition.”

Convergence not only highlights the skills of its dancers, including principal dancers Ho Ho-fei and Ong Tze Shen, but also incorporates innovative digital art. This melding of ancient cultures with modern music, video projections, and lighting creates a surreal, dream-like atmosphere.

The performance has already garnered international acclaim, including an award for “Outstanding Online Production” at the 23rd Hong Kong Dance Awards. Critics have praised the production’s execution and unique style. US Dance Magazine remarked on the “dizzying speed and cut-glass specificity” of the dancers, describing their performances as “downright thrilling.” The Hong Kong Commercial Daily noted the work’s vigour and grace, calling it a “unique style I have never seen before.”

The acclaim continues as an excerpt from Convergence has won the 13th China Dance Lotus Awards (Contemporary Dance) in 2023, the most prestigious National Awards for Dancing in China. This award highlights the exceptional quality and innovation of Hong Kong Dance Company’s work.

Don’t miss Convergence, performed by Hong Kong Dance Company, a celebration of Hong Kong’s distinctive artistic flair supported by Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney’s dedication to fostering East-meets-West cultural exchanges.

Performances of Convergence will be on 12 & 13 July at the Seymour Centre. A Q & A will follow the matinee performance on the 13. Tickets begin at $28. Click here to book now.

Hong Kong Dance Company Convergence, Image credit Hong Kong Dance Company