Description
This paper is aimed at discussing the performance which was displayed during the opening of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. It should be noted that the dancers were able to demonstrate their skills in the field of the stadium.
Moreover, there were hundreds of performers who could showcase very complex movements requiring strict coordination. In part, this performance, which lasted for more than fifty minutes, was supposed to impress the audience with the ability of dancers, designers, and musicians to coordinate their actions with pinpoint precision. This is one of the aspects that can be distinguished.
On the whole, one cannot say that this dance is narrative. It does not follow a specific plot. Admittedly, the viewers can see some scenes representing essential landmarks in the history of Chine. Nevertheless, this performance primarily has to highlight the unity and greatness of the country. This dance incorporates a variety of traditional Chinese costumes that represent various periods in the history of this society.
The area in which the performance is displayed is well-illuminated, and the viewers can see the clothes of dancers as well as their movements. The dance is accompanied by traditional musical instruments used in China.
However, one should not forget about Western ones, for example, piano. The atmosphere of the performance can be described as majestic. This word eloquently describes the performance that includes hundreds of dancers and musicians. Moreover, it best fits the music that accompanies some of the scenes. These are the main aspects that should be taken into account.
Analysis
This performance can be viewed as a combination of authentic Chinese dancing styles. To a great extent, this event was aimed at demonstrating the richness, diversity, and authenticity of Chinese culture. This is one of the goals that choreographers had to attain. Moreover, some of the dances represent the ritualistic elements of the country’s culture. As it has been said before, this display is not supposed to tell a clear narrative. More likely, the actors attempt to create vivid images of Chinese culture and its people.
The main message is to emphasize China’s greatness and ability of its people to create very complex, varied, and beautiful culture. In turn, the combination of music, costumes, and dances enable the performers to attain these objectives very successfully. This performance can be described as a coherent display of cultural artifacts. These are the main points that can be distinguished.
Evaluation
Overall, it is possible to argue that the choreographers were able to create a performance that produces a strong impression on the viewers. To a great extent, they were able to show that Chinese culture can incorporate century-old traditions and modernism. This performance appealed to me greatly.
While I was watching it, I was impressed with the ability of performers to merge different scenes into a seamless whole. However, at some moments, it seemed to me that the music was too ominous. Occasionally, I thought that this music something terrible was about to happen.
Furthermore, I have to admit that in some cases, I could not understand the cultural symbols displayed by the actors. Additionally, it is possible that the audience did not understand them as well. This is one of the limitations that can be identified. Still, I can say that performance can engage the viewers.