Street Dance Theatre: Inspired by the Eastern Wind combines street dance styles including hip-hop, locking, house, popping, and waacking with Eastern aesthetics. Inspired by the story of Zhuge Liang “borrowing the east wind,” the production explores the spirit of seizing opportunities and moving forward with confidence.

About the Performance

Inspired by the wisdom of seizing the moment and the composed spirit represented by Zhuge Liang in the classic tale of “borrowing the east wind,” Inspired by the Eastern Wind presents a contemporary interpretation of this idea.

The work reflects the fighting spirit of young Chinese people today — taking opportunities, embracing change, and facing the world with confidence and vision.

Rooted in the energy and groove of street dance, including hip-hop, locking, house, popping, and waacking, the production maintains the authentic qualities of street dance while expanding its theatrical expression. By combining Eastern aesthetics with street dance movement, it transforms street performance into a professional theatre work.

Cast & Creatives

Directors

Rao Yuhong
Ye Zheng

The production is co-presented by Shanghai International Dance Center Theater and Shanghai Institute of Visual Art.

Recognition

Inspired by the Eastern Wind has been selected for:

• The 23rd China Shanghai International Arts Festival Rising Artists’ Works
• China Dancers Association’s 2025 “New Dance Talent Exchange & Promotion Support Program”
• The 2025 CHINA FOCUS program at the Edinburgh Art Festival

During its run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the production received a four-star review from The Scotsman, which described it as: “A trove of talent, well worth the hunt.”

Why Go

Inspired by the Eastern Wind offers a different perspective on street dance by bringing urban dance styles into a theatre setting. For audiences interested in street dance, contemporary performance, and the meeting point between Eastern aesthetics and modern movement, the production presents a stage work built around rhythm, movement, and cultural inspiration.