Cloud Gate Dance Theatre Presents Double Bill in Taipei, Reflecting on Cheng Tsung-lung's Artistic Journey

Cloud Gate Dance Theatre’s Artistic Director Cheng Tsung-lung presents his works 'A Place of Blue' and 'The Wall' at the National Theater in Taipei from June 25th to 28th, following tours in Chiayi and Kaohsiung. This double bill serves as a retrospective of the choreographer's creative development.

Originally choreographed in 2013 and 2015, the two works reflect different phases of Cheng’s career. During the press rehearsal, Cheng remarked that while 'A Place of Blue' was conceived while abroad, 'The Wall' was deeply rooted in his home environment. Reviewing the works over a decade later, he noted that although his perspectives have evolved, the core essence remains ingrained in his movement language.

'A Place of Blue' captures the isolation and insomnia Cheng experienced while living in New York, forcing an inward exploration of his emotions. In contrast, 'The Wall' draws from his upbringing in Wanhua, Taipei, incorporating temple culture, street festivals, and the rhythmic pace of urban life that shaped his physical sensibilities long before he became a choreographer.

Cheng expressed gratitude to musicians Chung Cheng-ta, Ko Chih-hao, and Huang Pei-yu, who collaborated on the research for 'The Wall.' The creative process involved field trips to various temples, allowing the team to re-examine the physical vocabulary and sonic landscapes found in religious rituals and iconography.

Previously performed in New York, London, Beijing, and Shanghai, the pairing of these two works offers audiences a comprehensive view of the choreographer's maturation.