Chongqing - On Jan 23 to 24, Lu Chuan's acclaimed dance drama Tiangong Kaiwu (The Exploitation of the Works of Nature) is making a triumphant return to the Chongqing Grand Theatre, marking a significant homecoming for a production that has become a global cultural phenomenon. Since its premiere, this "cultural blockbuster" has transcended national borders, captivating over 100,000 live spectators across 38 cities and amassing a staggering one billion views online. Its journey has taken it from the prestigious halls of the United Nations Headquarters in New York to the iconic sails of the Sydney Opera House, and most recently to the ancient cradle of drama in Athens, Greece.

The epic set design of Tiangong Kaiwu adds a breathtaking dimension to the actors' performances (Photo: Event Organizer)

At the heart of this visual spectacle is a daring reimagining of Song Yingxing's 17th-century scientific encyclopedia, a Ming Dynasty scholar often hailed as "China's Diderot." The original text is a rigorous record of ancient Chinese technologies—covering everything from metallurgy and silk production to agriculture and gunpowder. 

Tiangong Kaiwu's dance and acting are breathtaking (Photo: Event Organizer)

In this dance drama, director Lu Chuan has breathed life into these silent pages through the medium of "Chinese Qinggong." This gravity-defying choreographic style has sparked viral discussions online, with viewers marveling at the "flying" dancers whose movements seem to escape the laws of physics. By blending the gritty reality of ancient craftsmanship with the ethereal grace of Ming-era aesthetics, the drama transforms technical illustrations into a vibrant, living history.

"It was an excellent performance," commented Artemis Ignatiou, the choreographer of the Olympic Flame lighting and handover ceremonies, after watching the show. "I knew about the book, but I did not expect such intensity and passion."

The epic set design of Tiangong Kaiwu (Photo: Event Organizer)

This upcoming engagement in Chongqing is particularly anticipated following its 2025 debut in the city, which sold out instantly. The performance offers more than just technical brilliance. It is a profound exploration of the "spirit and bones" of the Chinese people. It celebrates the persistence of Song Yingxing, who turned his personal academic failures into a systematic pursuit of practical knowledge. As the dancers take to the stage in Chongqing once more, they carry with them the accolades of global diplomats and international critics alike, inviting local audiences to witness a breathtaking fusion of ancient wisdom and modern artistry that continues to stun the world.