After a resounding success in Singapore last year, the Shenzhen dance drama “Wing Chun” is set to go abroad once more, this time touching down in the U.K. for a series of 12 performances.
The critically acclaimed production will be staged at the prestigious Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London from Friday to Sept. 7 local time, marking its second overseas journey since its international debut in Singapore in 2023.
Preparations for the “Wing Chun” team are in full swing, with the crew and cast readying themselves for their journey to the U.K. The team has been rigorously rehearsing at their home venue, the Shenzhen Opera & Dance Theater, to ensure a flawless presentation on the British stage.
The Sadler’s Wells Theatre, a storied venue located on Roseberry Avenue in London, has been a home for performing arts for over three centuries.
The building consists of two performance spaces — the 1,500-seat main auditorium and the Lilian Baylis Studio. There are also extensive rehearsal rooms and technical facilities on-site. There are a number of associated artists and companies who produce original works for the theater, one of the U.K.’s foremost dance venues and production houses.
For the dance drama’s debut in the U.K., adjustments have been made to the stage design to adapt to the venue’s unique layout.
“While the stage and props have been modified by about 20% to suit the more intimate setting, the cast size remains unchanged, ensuring a perfect presentation,” said Li Chenzhe, deputy director of the Shenzhen Opera & Dance Theater’s dance troupe.
In London, anticipation is building as “Wing Chun” posters grace the walls of subway stations and the pages of local magazines. The 12 performances will bring the total number of “Wing Chun” shows staged overseas to 202.
Chief dancer Chang Hongji spoke of the mission to display their artistry to an international audience, saying, “Each performance is an opportunity for us to progress. We aim to fully exhibit our dance language and cultural understanding, allowing our international audience to appreciate our art.”
The journey of “Wing Chun” began at the Shenzhen Poly Theater on Dec. 22, 2022, where it opened to a full house. Since then, the production has toured both domestically and internationally, opening doors in the international performing arts market while captivating audiences with its unique blend of artistry and cultural depth.