The original dance drama Wing Chun, from Shenzhen in southern China, took centre stage at the Palais des Congrès in Paris on 4 October. Blending traditional Chinese martial arts with contemporary dance, the performance captivated the French audience, drawing loud applause during its debut showing.
Wing Chun, created and staged by the Shenzhen Opera & Dance Theatre, is based on the traditional Chinese Kung Fu style of Wing Chun, which is recognised as part of China’s national intangible cultural heritage. The production tells the story of the legendary martial arts master Ye Wen, tracing his journey from Foshan in Guangdong Province to Hong Kong. The narrative is interwoven with Xiangyunsha, or Gambiered Canton Gauze, an ancient Chinese fabric technique, further adding to the cultural richness of the performance.
The fusion of Wing Chun and dance was praised for its artistic innovation, with martial arts movements seamlessly integrated into the choreography. The audience was treated to a unique experience that blended physical prowess with artistic expression, creating an evocative retelling of a traditional Chinese story.
The production has already enjoyed a successful global tour, with over 200 performances staged since its debut in Shenzhen in December 2022. Prior to Paris, Wing Chun has also mesmerised audiences in London and Macao.
International media outlets have lauded the production. The Times praised the seamless combination of dance and martial arts, calling it an unforgettable cultural experience. The Guardian awarded the performance a high rating of four stars, recognising its artistic merit.
Farooq Chaudhry, a renowned dance producer, commented on the success of Wing Chun: “The show not only tells a Chinese story but also showcases Chinese art in a way that resonates with international audiences.”
Flora Boumia, a French media liaison officer, noted that the production highlights the vitality of modern China through its traditional cultural heritage, saying, “This performance allows audiences to witness Shenzhen’s profound cultural legacy while also displaying the city’s ambition on the international stage.”
An audience member attending the first Paris show was deeply impressed, describing it as “a memorable performance, with a perfect blend of storyline, acting, and orchestral music.”
Following its Paris debut, the dance drama will continue its global tour, with additional performances scheduled in the coming days. This tour aims to foster further international cultural exchanges and cooperation, strengthening Shenzhen’s cultural influence abroad.
Shenzhen, a major city in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, is known not only for its position as a high-tech and financial hub but also for its efforts in cultural outreach. Through concerts, exhibitions, sports events, and international tours like Wing Chun, Shenzhen has been building bridges between China and the rest of the world, offering unique cultural experiences and promoting its rich heritage on the global stage.
The city’s focus on cultural exchange is part of its broader ambition to be recognised as a leader in international cultural cooperation, showcasing China’s evolving modernity while maintaining its deep historical roots.
