On our last evening in China our guide, Bryan, took us to the theatre to see a stunning performance of music and dance popular during the Tang Dynasty. The old painting above shows the imperial court enjoying a kind of folk entertainment called ribbon dancing. A similar version of this was sleeve dancing where long flowing sleeves emphasised the rhythm and motion of the dance. (www.tang-dynastyshow.com)
"Spring Outing" - this was a piece of famous Tang Dynasty dancing music for ritual ceremonies. The music depicts a group of young girls returning from a spring outing, dancing and singing, and wishing for a happy future.
The Emperor XuanZong was a gifted musician and poet. One night he dreamt about a fairyland palace on the moon where ladies danced in costumes of pink clouds. When he awoke he asked his favourite concubine to arrange and rehearse the beautiful dance.
"Gossiping Ducks & Hungry Tiger". We loved the sounds of the various Chinese instruments..... this tall percussion instrument made a kind of "quacking" sound. Through the music of the drums, cymbals, gongs, etc. we heard the ducks gossiping and quarreling at the waterside; and a hungry tiger, grinding his teeth, as he came down from the mountain looking for prey.
"Spring Purification Festival" - was observed on the 3rd March and celebrated with outings to the countryside to enjoy the red and white peach blossoms. This famous Tang Dynasty dance portrays a beautiful, blooming spring day.
Beijing and Xian offered many kinds of Chinese entertainment - music, opera, acrobats, Kung Fu - but we were delighted to see this show on the eve of our departure.
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