SZ dance drama a 'wonderful gift' for St. Petersburg

Shenzhen’s original dance drama “Wing Chun” made its debut in the Russian cultural city of St. Petersburg on Wednesday evening. The Mariinsky Theater, a world-famous platform of opera and ballet, provides the perfect backdrop for this cultural masterpiece.

Videos by Marina Vilchinskaia

Following the captivating performance, Nizami Mamishev, vice president of the Committee for Foreign Relations of St. Petersburg, met with the cast and crew to express his admiration, highlighting the performance as a “wonderful gift” for the people of St. Petersburg.

“The performance combines martial arts and dance, showcasing the beauty and culture of the Chinese people to the fullest,” Mamishev remarked. He praised the creative team from Shenzhen for their exceptional skill and professionalism.

“Through cultural exchange, people are always brought closer together,” Mamishev added.

Nizami Mamishev, vice president of the Committee for Foreign Relations of St. Petersburg, accepts the interview. Photos by Zhangyu

The success of “Wing Chun” in St. Petersburg follows its triumph in Moscow, and the production is set to continue its run at the historic Mariinsky Theater with two scheduled shows May 1.

An audience member poses for a picture with the poster.

Audience members were visibly moved by the performance. Diana, a local theatergoer who attended the show with her mother Natalia, a theater employee, was particularly impressed. 

“I’m a bit overwhelmed; I cried three times already during the first part,” she shared. “The choreography and the immense emotions were palpable from our seats.” Diana, who hadn’t been particularly interested in ballet or opera for years, was drawn to “Wing Chun” and found it to be a special experience.

“For me, it’s an introduction to another culture. I’m very happy that we came here to see this show. It’s so different and wonderful,” said Natalia, who celebrated her birthday on the day. 

As the curtain fell on the first performance, many viewers rushed to the stage to applaud the actors, take pictures, and capture videos. The enthusiastic response from the St. Petersburg audience underscores the universal appeal of “Wing Chun” and its ability to bring people closer together through the power of art.

The actors take their curtain call, and the audience rose to their feet with enthusiastic applause.