'Wing Chun' proves artistic prowess in Russia: artistic director

Video by Marina Vilchinskaia

After a great success in Moscow, the Shenzhen-made dance drama “Wing Chun” is poised to captivate audiences in St. Petersburg. The production is scheduled to grace the iconic stage of the Mariinsky Theater from April 30 to May 1, further cementing the cultural ties between China and Russia.

The facade of Mariinsky II (New Theater). Shenzhen-made dance drama "Wing Chun" is scheduled to be performed at the Mariinsky II (New Theater) from April 30 to May 1. Zhang Yu

Konstantin Matveev, artistic director of Boris Eifman Dance Academy — one of Russia’s most prestigious dance institutions — shared his insights on the significance of the Shenzhen production’s Russian tour and the broader cultural exchanges between the two nations.

A poster of "Wing Chun" is seen at the theater.

“Performing at venues like Moscow’s Bolshoi Theater or St. Petersburg’s Mariinsky Theater is a tremendous honor, reserved for only the most exceptional troupes. ‘Wing Chun’ joins the ranks of the most exceptional troupes,” Matveev told Shenzhen Daily in an exclusive interview.

Matveev, who has a deep personal connection to China having spent several years teaching in the Asian country, expressed his admiration for the rapid evolution and depth of Chinese art.

Konstantin Matveev, artistic director of Boris Eifman Dance Academy, at an exclusive interview with Shenzhen Daily. Marina Vilchinskaia

“China’s rich traditional art heritage is something I greatly admire, and now you are also embracing European art forms like dance, choreography, and ballet, refining them to an even higher level. Your ability to absorb and elevate the finest elements of global art is truly impressive,” Matveev said.

He emphasized the mutual benefits of cultural exchange, stating, “It enriches both sides immensely. Through collaboration with Chinese peers, we gain invaluable insights—and I believe we, too, have meaningful experiences to share. This mutual learning makes such exchanges profoundly rewarding.”

Matveev is particularly excited about the innovative fusion of martial arts and contemporary dance presented in “Wing Chun.” 

“Martial arts like Wing Chun, which you’ve brought to the stage, are already beloved in Russia. But what’s truly captivating is your innovative fusion of martial arts and contemporary dance. These disciplines share a striking kinship: the precision, the grace, the control of the body. To see them united onstage is thrilling,” he shared.

Matveev (L) and Shenzhen Daily journalist Zhang Yu pose for a photo. Marina Vilchinskaia

Speaking of Shenzhen, where the dance drama hails from, Matveev mentioned that Shenzhen is a marvel — a city of youth and innovation, a beacon of progress. “Where such energy thrives, art flourishes. It’s no surprise that Shenzhen has become a cultural hub, attracting top talent and investment.”

Shenzhen and St. Petersburg — two cities, two cultures — are tightly connected by dance. On April 28, some dancers from “Wing Chun” visited the Boris Eifman Dance Academy for an exchange.

In October 2023, Russia’s prestigious Eifman Ballet of St. Petersburg made its debut in Shenzhen, performing at the Bay Opera of Shenzhen.

The Eifman Ballet of St. Petersburg brought Mr. Eifman’s representative work — the ballet “Anna Karenina” to Shenzhen audiences, offering them an ultimate ballet experience.