Traversing a Thousand Years: Unveiling a Distinct Aesthetic of Flourishing Splendor

In the exhibition hall of the Henan Museum dedicated to the Sui and Tang Dynasties (581-907), a collection of vividly lifelike painted clay figurines of female musicians showcases a spectrum of postures and expressions. Some are seated, gracefully playing their instruments while their skirts drape elegantly, while others radiate poise and serenity. To recreate the performance scenes of the imperial banquets during the flourishing Tang Dynasty, we sought to present 14 captivating female figures through our dance."Night Banquet in Tang Dynasty Palace" serves as a gateway, opening a portal to the magnificent High Tang.

Photo of Yi Xingyan, dancer of "Night Banquet in Tang Dynasty Palace", during an exclusive interview with Guangming Online.

Beauty Exemplified in Diversity and Inclusivity

In traditional classical dance, performers generally seek to impart a sense of elegance and gentleness, exuding an ethereal quality. However, in "Night Banquet in Tang Dynasty Palace", the young women present plumper and more playful images. Dressed in the cross-collared, waist-length skirt, we filled our garment with sponge and adorned ourselves with slanting red makeup, with cotton balls tucked into our mouths. The vibrant and bold colors of our costumes reflect the dignified demeanor of women during the Tang Dynasty. Our figures epitomize the diverse aesthetic ideals of that era, while the richly painted embellishments showcase the inclusive nature of Tang culture. These elements blend to create the unique charm of women in that era. The contrast between the rounded, soft forms of the Tang figurines and the slender images typically associated with classical dancers led us through a journey from initial resistance to eventual affection. Ultimately, we delivered a visual feast for the audience that took them back to the splendid Tang Dynasty.

Photo of Yi Xingyan in the dance performance "Night Banquet in Tang Dynasty Palace". (Photo provided to Guangming Online)

In our portrayal of characters, we embody the principle of harmony in diversity. "Night Banquet in Tang Dynasty Palace" does not offer a singular definition of beauty; instead, it celebrates independent and captivating souls. While our gestures and movements radiate an endearing charm that captures the cultural essence of the Tang Dynasty, each dancer shows distinct personality traits. Some are lively and curious, others calm and composed. Some are timid and reserved, and others a bit reckless. For instance, as the eldest among us, my character is crafted to be more serious and dignified, earning me the affectionate title of “Miss Number One of Tang Palace” from many audience members. Our dance movements also embody this individuality; while holding various musical instruments, we alternate between graceful choreography and playful interactions, showcasing a beauty that defies uniformity. This personalized and characteristic portrayal is vividly executed in the depiction of our roles throughout the performance.

Melody and Dance: Cultural Legacy Passed on

When I first saw the painted clay figurines of female musicians, I felt an uncanny familiarity, as if we were kindred spirits traversing a millennium, bound by shared traits. These figurines not only capture the essence of the vibrant music and dance arts of the Tang Dynasty but also serve as crucial vessels for cultural transmission. As a dancer, I regard myself as a chronicler within the ongoing narrative of artistic evolution. We are profoundly anchored in the fertile soils of China’s exquisite traditional culture, perpetuating the legacy of Chinese dance across the ages.

Interpreting "Night Banquet in Tang Dynasty Palace" has been a vibrant highlight of my dance career, marking a significant journey of personal growth and artistic refinement. We delved deep into the rich cultural heritage of the Tang Dynasty, broadening our knowledge and drawing inspiration from our everyday lives. Many of the playful yet dramatic dance movements arose spontaneously from our moments of camaraderie and joy. Before taking to the stage, we honed our skills through countless rehearsals, meticulously refining our techniques and infusing our roles with our understanding and appreciation of Tang culture. This dedicated approach enhanced the artistic appeal of the entire piece, enabling the audience to not only marvel at the performance’s beauty but also to grasp the profound historical implications woven into the musical and dance traditions.

Photo of the dance performance "Night Banquet in Tang Dynasty Palace". (Photo provided to Guangming Online)

Exemplifying China’s rich traditional culture, cultural relics unceasingly inspire our creative endeavors. As artists, we must engage with the time-honored legacy of music and dance, cherishing traditions while embracing innovation. We bear the onus to rediscover the elegance of Chinese culture and enable more to savor the appeal of Eastern aesthetics.

Contributed by Yi Xingyan, dancer of "Night Banquet in Tang Dynasty Palace", edited by Junye Zhang and Ji Yunfan (Intern).