XIANG XU DANCE
“Dance Dialogues: A Journey into China's Cultural Tapestry" 2025 Xiang Xu, Jillian Harris
This project has been made possible through the generous support of the Asian Cultural Council Fellowship, Temple University’s Vice Provost for the Arts Grant, and a Grant-in-Aid from Temple University.
ANNOUNCEMENT
After more than a year of preparation, Temple University dance faculty members Jillian and Xiang are thrilled to announce that this summer, we will embark on a two-month cultural exchange and dance field research journey across over 16 cities across China, Thailand, Vietnam, North Macedonia, and Egypt.
\Our research focuses on traditional dance and embodied movement practices. We’ll be deeply engaging with local dance institutions and communities, immersing ourselves in traditional dance forms, martial arts, and cultural rituals.
The goal is twofold: to promote Boyer College of Music and Dance internationally and to explore how these diverse embodied practices can inform the development of a new model for contemporary dance training.
If you are located in or near any of the destinations on our itinerary, we would love to connect with you during our travels!
2025 Travel Itinerary (May 8 – July 19)
Hong Kong, China: May 10 – May 13
Bangkok, Thailand: May 14 – May 19
Hanoi, Vietnam: May 20 – May 24
Wudang Mountain (武当山), China: May 25 – June 6
Wuhan （武汉）China: June 6 – June 7
Changsha (长沙), China: June 7 – June 10
Chongqing (重庆), China: June 11 – June 13
Chengdu (成都), China: June 14 – June 15
Xi’an (西安), China: June 16 – June 17
Shanghai (上海), China: June 18 – June 22
Xining (西宁), China: June 23 – June 24
Skopje, North Macedonia: June 11 – June 17
Cairo, Egypt: June 18 – June 22
Tibet（西藏），China: June 23 – July 4
Hangzhou (杭州), China: July 5 – July 9
Xinjiang (新疆), China: July 10 – July 18
Hong Kong, China: May 10 – May 13
Hong Kong Museum of Arts
Merging the old and new at Hong Kong Museum of Arts. Beautiful moments of interactivity. In "Cinemorpeque", AI randomly drew from 30 different scenes from past Hong Kong films: https://hk.art.museum/.../perceptual-and-intellectual.html
Visiting Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts
It was a true pleasure, on behalf of Boyer College of Music and Dance at Temple University, to meet Anna CY Chan, Director of The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, and Ou Lu, Acting Dean of the School of Dance.
Thank you for the warm hospitality and for making us feel so welcome with a wonderful tour of your impressive campus. Jillian and I were honored to attend the graduation dance concert — we were truly inspired by the outstanding talent and professionalism of your BFA students.
We look forward to building a meaningful international connection between our institutions and exploring future opportunities for artistic collaboration and exchange!
Bangkok, Thailand: May 14 – May 19
It’s time to take off for our next destination — Bangkok, Thailand! Jillian and I are beyond excited to continue our global journey and dive into everything this vibrant city has to offer. Bangkok, here we come!
Thailand is a Buddhist wonderland—a place where the profound power of human creativity is revealed through every intricate detail of its temples and pagodas. Adorned with countless embedded jewels and shimmering diamonds, these sacred sites reflect not only craftsmanship but centuries of devotion and spiritual expression.
To be an artist is not only to study theory or text, but to open your eyes and heart to the unseen layers of the world. Traveling to places like Thailand offers a chance to encounter beauty, humility, and a deeper understanding of who we are within the global community. It is in these moments that art becomes not just a practice, but a path to spiritual awakening.
“When in Thailand, embrace the Thai way of life.”
What a wonderful reunion in Bangkok, Dharakorn! It was so special to reconnect after first meeting at the World Dance Education Alliance at Beijing Dance Academy. Thank you so much for showing us around — Jillian and I had an amazing time exploring the city with you. Can’t wait for another day of adventure tomorrow!
It was a fulfilling day of dance with Dharakorn Chandnasaro and Jillian Harris as we wrapped up our stay here in Bangkok. We enjoyed Khon (Thai Masked Dance-The Ramakien) at the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre and later marveled at the vivacious energy of this aerobic group in the local park. Kudos to the dude in the front row staying on the beat!
Hanoi, Vietnam: May 20 – May 24
Dance Dialogues: A Journey into Global Cultural Tapestry——Our next destination is Hanoi Vietnam
From the USA to Hong Kong to Bangkok, our journey has been incredibly productive—deepening our dance and cultural research through meaningful connections with local communities and artistic explorations. Traveling to see the world while engaging with people from different walks of life has opened our eyes to diverse lifestyles and experiences, all through the lens of our unique perspectives.
Learning from them with an open mind is where the true power of the arts reveals itself. It’s in this exchange—of stories, movements, and ideas—that creativity thrives.
Visiting The Vietnam Academy of Dance
It was a true pleasure to reconnect with Ms. Thuy Nga Nguyen, Director of the Vietnam Academy of Dance in Hanoi. Our meeting was a meaningful reunion since we first crossed paths through the World Dance Education Alliance at the Beijing Dance Academy. Time has flown, and it was a joy to see you again—this time at your esteemed institution.
We had a truly enriching and productive visit. It was an honor to observe your students’ final dance assessments, and both Jillian and I were deeply impressed by their talent, discipline, and artistry. We greatly valued the insightful and heartfelt conversations we shared with you throughout the day.
On behalf of Boyer College of Music and Dance at Temple University, we extend our sincere gratitude for your warm hospitality. We look forward to building a strong international partnership between our two institutions and to exploring future collaborations in dance education and cultural exchange.
With appreciation and warm regards,
Temple of Literature
“What a beautiful day to explore the rich history of Vietnam by touring Hanoi’s iconic landmarks—starting with the Temple of Literature, the country’s first university established during the imperial era.”
"Lotus Water Puppet"
Vietnam Contemporary Art Theatre consists of highly experienced artists from Vietnam's traditional craft villages who regularly perform "Lotus Water Puppet" at the Viet Cultural Space beside Hoan Kiem lake. The performance provided charming and important snapshots of Vietnamese culture.
Wudang Mountain (武当山), China: May 25 – June 6
“Wudang Mountain, a sacred peak steeped in the spirit of Taoist tradition, welcomes us for ten days of immersive martial arts study. Amid ancient temples and mist-covered paths, Jillian and I begin our journey into the heart of internal discipline and harmony.”
Our new home for ten days of training
Emphasize living in harmony with nature, cultivating inner peace, and practicing effortlessness
Tibet（西藏），China: June 23 – July 4
What a breathtaking journey it has been to witness one of the world’s oldest civilizations here in Egypt—an experience that far surpassed the pages of books, bringing history vividly to life. Every moment was filled with awe and unexpected surprises. Now, it’s time to embark on my next grand adventure: Tibet—the rooftop of the world, the majestic Himalayas, the sacred land that has long called to my spirit. Tibet, I’m coming!
Nyingchi, Tibet
Let go of the weight of yesterday, release the illusions of tomorrow. The path unfolds only in the now.
To behold the ancient architecture and the countless Buddhist treasures within the Potala Palace and the sacred temples of Tibet is to witness the embodiment of a civilization shaped not merely by stone and gold, but by centuries of unwavering faith. These are not just monuments—they are silent prayers carved into time.
Standing before the majestic Everest, I’m overwhelmed by the promise I once made to myself—to reach the highest point on Earth. Now, in the heart of the Himalayas, after overcoming altitude sickness and enduring a ten-hour journey, I realize that life is a beautiful blend of challenge and wonder. Each goal we reach is a quiet testament to the strength of our belief, a romantic dance between our dreams and the courage it takes to chase them.
EVEREST, HIMALAYAS
What a profound and heartfelt encounter with the soul of Tibetan music. Chris discovered his beloved Tibetan guitar, a sound he had long sought, and in that moment, we witnessed a spark—an unspoken language between East and West.
As Chris and the young Tibetan musician improvised, melodies flowed like rivers meeting at the foot of the Himalayas—distinct, yet harmonious, echoing ancient spirits and new dreams.
This was more than music; it was communion—a fleeting yet eternal connection forged through shared breath and rhythm.
We are deeply grateful to the Tibetan people for opening their hearts, for revealing a culture as vast as the mountains, as tender as the wind on the plateau. Though we may not return soon, this memory—this harmony—will forever sing within us.
Hangzhou (杭州), China: July 5 – July 9
Visiting Zhejiang Vocational Academy of Art
It was a great honor to represent the Boyer College of Music and Dance at Temple University during my visit to the School of Dance at Zhejiang Vocational Academy of Art in Hangzhou. During the visit, we were warmly welcomed by Party Secretary Cao Lianghong, who graciously guided us through the dance facilities and introduced us to a series of outstanding student performances and creative works.
This visit aims to further explore and promote potential collaboration between Temple University and Zhejiang Vocational Academy of Art in the field of dance education. We look forward to establishing a cross-national partnership that will foster mutual learning, cultural exchange, and innovative development in dance between China and the United States.
Xinjiang (新疆), China: July 10 – July 18
Time flies—our global cultural journey has now reached its final stop: Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. With great anticipation, we embark on this last, enchanting chapter of our adventure. Let’s take off!
It was another vibrant and unforgettable day in Xinjiang! Jillian and I set off to explore the legendary Heavenly Lake (新疆天池), a breathtaking gem nestled among lush green mountains, where emerald forests meet crystal-clear turquoise waters fed by cascading waterfalls. Nature was truly showing off her finest colors today.
But what made the day even more special was an unexpected reunion—right here in Urumqi, I reconnected with my former classmate and old roommate from the Beijing Dance Academy! Of all places, fate brought us back together in the heart of Xinjiang. What a day full of wonder, nostalgia, and joy!
We had a beautiful introduction to the music, dance, and culture of the Xinjiang region at the Xinjiang Arts Theatre Mukamu Arts Troupe Theatre’s production of “Mukamu Love Song-Wan Tong”. Wan Tong was a Han Chinese composer who was involved in helping document and preserve mukamu, the classic music of the Uyghur ethnic minority group.
The happiest and most fulfilling moments of life were those four years at Beijing Dance Academy—days and nights spent with old classmates, learning, growing, dancing side by side. We supported each other, shared the joy of every small discovery, and found laughter in the rhythm of hard work. Time has flown; we’ve grown up now, through tears and triumphs, cherishing every fleeting detail of our youth in the academy.
Years after graduation, we meet again—this time in Xinjiang—with my beloved Uyghur classmates. The reunion feels like coming home, wrapped in a warmth only kindred spirits can give. We have endless stories to tell, and our laughter echoes just as it did back then. Our personalities remain unchanged, as if no time has passed at all. In this moment, the past dances back to life, and the reunion becomes a tender verse in the poem of our shared journey.
Turpan, Xinjiang (新疆), China: July 13
Hot, Hot, Hot! Over 120°F at the legendary Flaming Mountains in Xinjiang — this place isn’t just hot, it’s insanely hot! But that’s exactly why it’s so unforgettable. Nestled in the heart of the desert, this fiery landscape is like something straight out of a sci-fi film.
Despite the heat, the adventure was totally worth it — Jillian and I explored the awe-inspiring Jiaohe Ancient City, a 2,000-year-old ghost city carved from the earth, still standing strong amidst time and sand. We also marveled at the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Grottoes, filled with ancient Buddhist art, spiritual energy, and stories etched into cave walls.
And perhaps most mind-blowing of all — we descended into the 5,000-year-old Karez underground water system, a genius feat of ancient engineering. Known as the “Underground Great Wall,” this irrigation network kept life thriving in the harsh Turpan Depression. The whole trip was like stepping into a living time capsule wrapped in desert heat and history!
“Dance Dialogues: A Journey into China's Cultural Tapestry"
Xiang Xu, Jillian Harris
The proposed Individual Fellowship activities revolve around the research project titled "Dance Dialogues: A Journey into China's Cultural Tapestry." This project, led by myself, Xiang Xu, and my colleague, Jillian Harris, both faculty members at Temple University, entails an immersive eight-week journey to various regions in China. Our endeavor aims to explore the diverse cultural tapestry of the country, drawing inspiration from its artistic traditions, and conducting research for the development of our innovative dance technique known as Sinocontemporary. This technique fuses Western contemporary dance with Asian philosophies and body aesthetics.
Recipient of the Individual Fellowship Grant from the Asian Cultural Council (ACC) for cultural exchange project in China, New York City 2024
Xaing Xu
Jillian Harris
Who?
The project will be led by Xiang Xu, an assistant professor at Temple University, and Jillian Harris, an associate professor. Both of us are contemporary choreographers and experienced dance educators with a shared passion for cross-cultural exploration and innovation in dance.
What?
Our research will encompass studying various forms of dance, including Chinese classical dance, martial arts, ethnic minority folk dances, and Buddhist arts. We will collaborate with local artists and communities, hold free workshops, and participate in lectures to share our knowledge and gather insights. The project will conclude with the creation of a one-hour dance research documentary and a one-week free workshop and colloquium in Philadelphia and New York City, where we aim to engage with the public and promote cross-cultural understanding.
When?
The research project will span eight weeks, with activities planned from August 1 to August 31 2024, and May 1 to May 31, 2025.
Where?
The project will encompass various regions in China, including Beijing, Zhejiang Province, Hubei Province, Yunnan Province, and Xingjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.
Why?
The overarching goal of this project is to delve into the rich cultural heritage of China and merge it with our innovative Sinocontemporary dance technique. We aim to expand our knowledge and understanding of Chinese artistic traditions, which can inform the development of our dance technique and foster cross-cultural dialogue. Furthermore, the project has a social justice dimension, aiming to promote diversity and understanding, particularly in the wake of a rise in violence against the AAPI community and the politicization of the pandemic.
How?
Our research in China will involve an immersive approach. In Beijing, we will study Chinese classical dance at the renowned Beijing Dance Academy and formalize classical dance techniques for modern expression. At Wudang Mountain Kung Fu Academy, we will learn Chinese martial arts to gain historical context. Collaborations and sharing with local artists will take place in Hubei Province. In Zhejiang Province, we will explore Buddhist arts under the guidance of Monk Minglang at Longhua Temple and connect with the community through workshops and discussions. Our journey will also lead us to Yunnan Province and Xingjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, where we will engage with local artists and ethnic minority groups.
Upon our return to the United States, we will synthesize our research into a one-hour dance research documentary that will capture the essence of our experiences in China. The documentary will serve as a tool to educate and inform audiences about the richness of Chinese cultural traditions and the cross-cultural dialogue that has taken place. Simultaneously, we will organize a one-week colloquium in Philadelphia and New York City, which will feature discussions, workshops, and public-facing programs. The colloquium will provide a platform to share our findings, engage with the public, and contribute to the Stop Asian Hate Movement.
What We Hope to Gain from Cultural Exchange:
Artistic Development: We aspire to deepen our artistic development by immersing ourselves in the cultural and artistic traditions of China. We aim to gain insights into Chinese dance forms, philosophy, and body aesthetics that can enrich our choreographic work, especially our Sinocontemporary dance technique. Through this exchange, we hope to push the boundaries of contemporary dance and create innovative and culturally rich performances.
Cross-Cultural Understanding: Cultural exchange is a two-way process that fosters mutual understanding. We aim to engage with Chinese artists, communities, and students to gain a deeper appreciation of Chinese culture. This understanding is invaluable in our role as educators, enabling us to bridge cultural gaps and promote diversity and inclusivity within the dance community. Addressing Societal Issues: In the context of a rise in violence against the AAPI community and political developments, we believe in the power of art to address social issues. Through this cultural exchange, we hope to create a dance training system that highlights challenges related to diversity, racial equity, and social justice. By giving a voice to minority and immigrant populations, we aspire to contribute to a more inclusive and just society.
In summary, this cultural exchange is a transformative opportunity for artistic growth, cross-cultural understanding, and addressing societal issues through dance.
Exploring Chinese Martial Arts for Sino-Contemporary Dance Technique
A Journey to Chinese Shaolin Temple 2024
Movement Research
The convergence of Chinese martial arts and the innovative Sino-Contemporary dance technique has paved the way for a groundbreaking exploration at the crossroads of these two disciplines. Throughout the past week, I embarked on an immersive journey into the expansive realm of martial arts. I had the privilege of delving into intensive study sessions alongside revered Kung Fu masters. This captivating experience kindled a relentless curiosity within me, igniting a torrent of inquiries on how to organically blend the quintessence of Chinese martial arts with the foundational principles of Western contemporary dance.
As both a Chinese American choreographer and a dedicated professor, I have invested years in scrutinizing and contrasting traditional and contemporary dance forms. My artistic vision seamlessly weaves together the traditional kinetic aesthetics rooted in Asia with the established techniques of Western contemporary dance. This intricate tapestry incorporates elements from Chinese classical dance, martial arts, and folk dance, culminating in a profound embodiment of Chinese body aesthetics.
Central to this endeavor is the development of the pioneering Sino-Contemporary dance training system. This visionary approach draws inspiration from the graceful movements of Chinese Han and Tang classical dance, the dynamic energy of martial arts, and the captivating allure of various Asian dance traditions. The fusion seamlessly integrates techniques from Western traditional modern dance and contemporary dance, complemented by the incorporation of cutting-edge animal flow movement patterns.
At the core of Sino-Contemporary lies a meticulous emphasis on the body's natural curvature, the cultivation of a centered and grounded presence, and the mastery of internal energy, known as Qi. Dancers under my guidance harness the power of inner breath control to govern their movements, projecting their artistic expressions seamlessly into the surrounding space.
My ultimate aspiration transcends individual endeavors. It is a fervent ambition to propel the time-honored Chinese body aesthetics to the forefront of the global stage in the 21st century. This aspiration is interwoven with a journey that has been nothing short of extraordinary. Immersed in the presence of these seasoned martial arts experts, I have undergone a profound transformation. Their wisdom and guidance have not only redefined my approach to physical training but have also catalyzed a paradigm shift in my overarching perspective.
Gratefully Sponsored by Temple University: Embracing Funding from Temple Global Engagement, Grant-in-Aid Award, and Summer Research Award"
Movement Research in Chinese Martial Arts for Sino-Contemporary Dance Technique Chinese Shaolin Temple 2023
With Martial Arts Instructor Yuequan Yang
Dance Residency at Aakash Odedra Dance Company in The UK 2023
https://aakashodedra.com
The announcement you've been waiting for is finally here...
We have two incredibly talented dancers joining us for the 9th - 13th January for dance residencies.
They are Luke Hodkinson Dance a dancer, choreographer and writer from Manchester & Xiang Xu Dance an international choreographer, dancer and instructor from New York City..
Join us in this exciting Contemporary dance workshop with Xiang Xu
one of the fantastic dancers in residency at Aakash Odedra Company.
Xiang Xu is a dance professor at Temple University in Pennsylvania and is here to deliver an exciting masterclass teaching his own style, SinoContemporary.
In this class emphasis is placed on the ability to adopt Chinese bodily aesthetics: three bodily curves, center of gravity moving close to the ground, and internal energy—Qi. You will learn how to use internal breath to control physicality and expand your movement capabilities, which will aid your artistic growth as performers and your knowledge of the Chinese traditional bodily cultures behind these movements.
Tuesday 10th January, 18:45 – 20:30
32 Belgrave Road, Leics, LE4 5AS
£5, buy your ticket here: https://bit.ly/3Wg2pHQ
Cutural Residency in Cambodian National Arts Center with Prumsodun Ok
Prumsodun Ok
Born to Khmer refugees in the United States, I rose from the poverty and violence-stricken inner city of Long Beach to become the new face of Khmer dance. I use art to heal, illuminate, and empower, reviving the spirit of my people from the enduring forces of conflict. Seen by many as a champion of Khmer culture, I work as an artist, teacher, writer, and producer to shape a world where everyone can blossom into their fullest selves.
My interdisciplinary performances contemplate the “avant-garde in antiquity,” and have been presented at the Department of Performing Arts (Cambodia), Bangkok Theater Festival – Asia Focus (Thailand), Za-Koenji (Japan), Godrej Leadership Forum (India), Teatro Benito Juarez (Mexico), bhive (Greece), REDCAT (United States), Currents Festival (Cambodia), Camping Asia (Taiwan), CTM Festival (Germany), and documenta (Germany). They have been celebrated as “a vision of elegance and grace” (The Phnom Penh Post) and “Radical Beauty” (The Bangkok Post).
Interweaving Traditions: A Cultural Residency Bridging Cambodian Classical Dance and Sino-Contemporary
In August 2019, my journey led me to Cambodia, where I embarked on a transformative cultural residency alongside Prumsodun Ok, the visionary founder of Cambodia's pioneering all-male gay dance company. His mission to revive and reinvent the Khmer dance tradition, once nearly eradicated during the dark period of the Khmer Rouge, left an indelible mark on my understanding of cultural resilience.
During this immersive experience, I delved into the intricate physical aesthetics of traditional Cambodian classical dance. Imbibing their dance training system not only enriched my knowledge but also laid a profound foundation for the evolution of the Sino-Contemporary dance technique.
In the course of our interactions, Prumsodun Ok imparted a pivotal insight that has resonated deeply within me - that artistic brilliance is not solely born of talent and creativity, but rather forged by an unwavering courage to break barriers.
This enlightening experience, among others, has crystallized my conviction that dance should never be forced into the confines of an international language. Its inherent multilingual nature is a treasure trove of exploration and celebration. Our journey in modern and contemporary dance should stand upon the sturdy foundation of our diverse cultural traditions, nurturing and augmenting them instead of dismantling their essence. It is through such interwoven threads of heritage that dance truly flourishes, carrying forward the legacy of our collective humanity.
