Alison M. Friedman on the Current State of Modern Dance in China

In the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, a foreign-imported, contemporary art form stole briefly but notably into the mix of martial arts and Peking opera: modern dance. Does this reveal China now embraces modern dance, an art form that was completely outlawed less than 30 years ago? Alison M. Friedman will discuss the current status of modern dance in China in the context of domestic economic forces and market pressures from abroad, as well as issues of individual expression and artists' search for a 'modern Chinese' identity/voice.

Friedman's research examines the evolving Chinese performing arts context and explores influences that are encumbering the development of modern dance in China - now more economic than political. She will also offer observations for what must happen for modern dance to flourish in China.

Allison M. Friedman is a 2009-10 Arts Management Fellow at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC, and the leading expert on modern dance in China.

This event is co-hosted with the Sidwell Friends School.