The first day of competition at NTDTV's International Chinese Classical Dance Competition got off to an exuberant start with preliminary judging. A full schedule of competitors performed routines to an appreciative audience.
Despite vicious and continuous interference from the Chinese government, New York University agreed with NTDTV that the competition should go forward.
Demonstrating required techniques, contestants performed a two-minute routine in a first-round followed by a one-minute routine. A variety of music was chosen, some lively, some melodic. Although most musical selections had a decidedly Asian flavor, one dancer chose March of the Toreadors from Carmen. A female dancer chose a tango rhythm as she danced with an umbrella. Some accompaniments suggested Middle Eastern music.
Competitors expressed the meaning of the dance through their technique and what they wore. Many wore beautifully draped costumes that allowed maximum freedom. They also used props such as fans, swords, ribbons and tasseled spears. Several showed expertise in twirling and tossing spears and thrusting with swords.
Contestants demonstrated required moves with an ease that belied their difficulty. The required move of pulling a leg parallel to their body then swinging it behind showed the result of years of practice and training. A unique sitting twist was performed by many of the female performers.
Also unique to this style of dance were hand movements reminiscent of ancient Buddha statues. The delicate movements of the ladies belied the strength required for leaps and spins. The male competitors incorporated martial arts movements and all demonstrated amazing acrobatic skills.
The morning featured young women and men competing in the junior division. The afternoon was reserved for adult dancers.
The audience showed its favor by hearty applause of especially pleasing performances.
The competition continues at New York University's Skirball Center for the Performing Arts with semi-finals on Saturday and a finals and awards ceremony on Sunday. Topping off thes first-of-its-kind competition, dancers from NTDTV's Spectacular will give a performance Sunday evening for contestants and audience.
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