Taiwan dance group debut at Sadler's Wells

Cloud Gate 2 dancers explore human identity through expressive movements and dance while on stage at London's premier dance theater. [Photo/Provided to China Daily]

A dance company from Taiwan with members that have a background in tai chi and martial arts in addition to ballet made their debut at Sadler's Wells Theatre in London this week with three new works that premiered earlier this year.

The members of Cloud Gate 2 put their unconventional talents to work in performances that provided a showcase for up-and-coming dance and choreographic talent.

Cloud Gate 2, the sister company of internationally acclaimed Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan, was founded in 1999 to encourage talented young dancers, original works, and innovative young choreographers.

This week's three-night run was part of the Out of Asia 2 season at Sadler's Wells, which brings Asia's performing arts to London.

Alistair Spalding, artistic director at Sadler's Wells, said: "The event is a very important season and people have really seen what Asia is about."

He said London's leading venue for innovative dance will incorporate Asian and Chinese works into its regular program in future, rather than confine them to special seasons.

Cloud Gate 2's artistic director Cheng Tsung-lung said his inspiration comes from his life experiences and feelings.

He said moods and emotions can influence artistic output in the dance field. Referring to one of two works he choreographed for Sadler's Wells, he said:"The Wall was created when I felt confused and trapped in life and I use choreography to solve my problems."

The piece－the second of the three that were part of the Sadler's Wells program－is a dark and complex dance performed on a dimly-light stage with dancers marching, robot-like, before breaking free into their more expressive movements against the sound of dramatic heavy beats.

With the contrast of light and shadow, dancers change from dark costumes to light with the occasional burst in which solo dancers show of their skills.

Looking forward to the company's future work, Cheng said its mission is to bring the art of dance to everyone in Taiwan.

"We go to grassroots communities, smaller villages and schools to perform for them the same program we have brought to London."

Cheng hopes to have three new choreographers in action with new works produced by next spring and hopes to produce a new work of his own.