The Arts Centre Presents Shanghai Beauty

Chinese dancer Jin Xing is no stranger to big audiences. Recognised as China's number one dancer and the director of the first independent dance group in China, she has danced her way across Asia, America and Europe.

Now Melbourne has their chance to see her, when she stars in Shanghai Beauty at the State Theatre from 4 - 7 March.

"I haven't performed yet in Australia, but I know that in terms of culture Melbourne is probably the most active among all Australian cities. Therefore I'm very pleased as an artist that the Arts Centre - one of the leading venues in Australia - introduces my company to the sophisticated Melbourne audience," said Jin Xing.

Her story is even more remarkable considering, Jin Xing's began her career as a young boy in the People's Liberation Army of China, before rising to the rank of Colonel.

Whilst still serving in the army, Jin Xing travelled to Europe and America studying with some of the world's best dancers and choreographers including Merce Cunningham and Martha Graham, winning a multitude of awards including "Best Choreographer Award" at the American Dance Festival in 1991.

Returning to China from Europe at age 26, Jin Xing underwent sex reassignment surgery to become the first transsexual recognised by the Chinese government. Her story has been made famous by the documentary Colonel Jin Xing: A Unique Destiny.

She is now recognised as the most significant choreographer in China and the director of the biggest independent dance group in the country.

Together with her troupe, the performance of Shanghai Beauty at the State Theatre explores the concept of beauty from east to west through the medium of movement, drawing on the aesthetics of European contemporary dance and traditional Chinese influences such as Peking Opera and martial arts.

It is the first event in the Kenneth Myer Asian Theatre Series, a new biennial program from the Arts Centre that showcases outstanding contemporary Asian theatre works.

SPECIAL INSPIRE OFFER:
Take 25% off the price of ALL A Reserve tickets to Shanghai Beauty . Just enter the promotion code ASIA when booking to take advantage of this great offer.
the Arts Centre presents
Shanghai Beauty
4 - 7 March, 5pm & 8pm
the Arts Centre, State Theatre
Tickets: $39 - $89

For more information, click here.