Chinese Dance Fiesta 2026: Kunwu Introductory Dance Workshop

Presented by Singapore Chinese Dance Theatre
In collaboration with Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay (Singapore)

9 May 2026, Sat, 10am

2hrs

(Intermission: None)

Esplanade Rehearsal Studio (Meet at Theatre Studio, Level 4, 15mins before start time)

$10

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Synopsis

Curious about kunwu? Discover this captivating contemporary dance form born from the elegance of traditional kunqu opera, developed by first-class choreographer Professor Ma Jiaqin, Founding Dean of the Dance Academy at Nanjing University of the Arts.

Blending the finest elements of kunqu with contemporary expression, kunwu reflects a new art form rich in the essence of Jiangnan culture and humanistic emotion. Since its inception in 2003, it has emerged as the fourth major style of Chinese classical dance, following the schools of shenyun, han tang and dunhuang.

In this two-hour introductory workshop, Professor Ma will guide participants through the fundamentals of kunwu. Perfect for learners aged 13 and above, the session offers hands-on experience and the rare opportunity to explore the beauty and unique artistic charm of kunwu from the creator herself.

Admission Age:

13 and above.

Language: Mandarin

Things to Note:

Accessibility: All our venues are wheelchair-accessible. We offer various services to support patrons with access needs. For assistance, please contact Esplanade Customer Experience at 6828 8377. Concessions are available for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and one accompanying companion. To learn more, read our accessibility guide.

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Artist Information

Ma Jiaqin

Professor Ma Jiaqin is a first-class choreographer from China and the creator of kunwu. She has served as Vice Chairman of the Jiangsu Dance Association and as the Founding Dean of the Dance Academy at Nanjing University of the Arts. She is a distinguished professor in charge of kunwu, and has held leadership roles in Suzhou’s performing arts institutions. She has received numerous awards, including the China’s Wenhua Choreography and Scriptwriting Awards, National Choreography First and Special Awards and Jiangsu Provincial Federation of Literary and Art Circles Contributor and Model title. Her centre for kunwu research and practice, the Kunwu Inheritance and Innovation Centre, was listed by the UNESCO as one of China’s intangible cultural heritage.

Representative works include Gan Jiang Mo Ye 《干将莫邪》, Wu Gu Niang 《五姑娘》, Yu Mei Re 《虞美人》 , Hua Meng 《花梦》 , Wu Zhi Lian Hua Lan 《五指莲花兰》, You Shan Tang 《游山塘》, Qing Zui San Yue Tia 《情醉三月天》, Dao Cao Ren 《稻草人》, Gui Mei 《鬼妹》, Chun 《春》, Feng Xue Xing Ren 《风雪行人》, Xiao Chun Xiang 《小春香》 and Chuan Yao – Yue Er Gao 《船谣——月儿高》.

Publications include Kun Yun Liu Fang 《昆韵流芳》, Collection of Academic Papers on Kunwu, Kunwu Syllabus for Undergraduates, as well as Teaching and Research Achievements on The Emergence and Ontological Structure of Kunwu.

Singapore Chinese Dance Theatre

Singapore Chinese Dance Theatre (SCDT), established in 2014, promotes Chinese dance through artistic excellence, nurturing young talent and creating innovative works rooted in tradition. It also engages communities through outreach efforts while showcasing its productions internationally.

Led by Artistic Director Jenny Neo, SCDT plays a key role in shaping Singapore’s Chinese dance identity. The company has been supported by the National Arts Council under its Major Company Scheme since 2016. It is a non-profit charity and Institution of Public Character (IPC), and a recipient of the 2024 Charity Transparency Award.

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Date & Time

9 May 2026, Sat

10am

Esplanade Rehearsal Studio

Tickets & Prices

	Standard
Price	$10

About Chinese Dance Fiesta

Singapore Chinese Dance Theatre (SCDT) is proud to present the Chinese Dance Fiesta 2026, a vibrant celebration of Chinese culture and heritage through the art of dance.

Happening from 4 to 17 May 2026, the 11th edition will feature eight public performances by talented dancers from schools, community groups and professional dance companies across Singapore. Look forward to a captivating blend of traditional and contemporary Chinese dance styles, with showcases at DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade on 8 and 9 May, Tampines on 10 May, VivoCity Amphitheatre, Level 3, on 15 May, Toa Payoh Central on 16 May and Chinatown on 17 May.

In addition, gain a deeper understanding of Chinese dance and culture through the kunwu master series in collaboration with Esplanade. Special guest Professor Ma Jiaqin—first-grade choreographer from China and Founding Dean of the Dance Academy at Nanjing University of the Arts—will lead two public Talk & Demonstration sessions, as well as two exclusive kunwu workshops, held for the first time in Singapore from 4 to 9 May.

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