A new contemporary dance production, Mindscape, was launched on March 30 in Guangzhou. The work is a collaboration between the Guangdong Modern Dance Company and Shen Wei Dance Arts, with internationally recognized artist Shen Wei serving as chief director.
The launch event took place at the Guangdong Modern Dance Company's premises, bringing together artists, cultural officials, and project partners. The production has now entered its creation phase.
Mindscape is part of ongoing efforts in Guangdong's cultural sector to expand international collaboration. The project brings together Shen Wei and his team with the Guangdong Modern Dance Company, which is known for its long-standing focus on contemporary and experimental dance practices in China.
The work will explore human emotion and the inner world through movement. According to the creative team, it draws on elements of Chinese philosophical thought while using a contemporary performance approach.
The production is scheduled to premiere at the Guangzhou Opera House on June 5–6, 2026. It is also set to tour internationally, with planned performances at the American Dance Festival and at the dance festival organized by Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.
Xiong Jian, General Manager of the Guangdong Modern Dance Company, said the collaboration is part of the company's broader effort to engage with international artists and develop new work. Founded in 1992, the company is considered China's first professional modern dance troupe and has been active in international exchanges.
Dancers involved in the project, from both China and abroad, described the production as an opportunity to work across different artistic backgrounds. They noted that the rehearsal process involves collaboration and exchange of ideas, particularly in developing movement language.
For Shen Wei, the project also marks a return. He was an original member of the Guangdong Modern Dance Company and has maintained an international career as a choreographer and visual artist. His previous works include Scroll Painting for the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, as well as stage productions such as Folding. He has received several international awards, including the Nijinsky Award for Emerging Choreographer.
Shen said Mindscape is rooted in Chinese philosophical ideas, focusing on the relationship between the inner self, nature, and the surrounding world. He described the work as an attempt to express these ideas through a contemporary artistic form.
With rehearsals now underway, Mindscape is expected to move into its next stage of development ahead of its premiere in June.
Reporter | Li Fangwang
Photo | Guangdong Modern Dance Company, Li Fangwang
