Audiences embrace 'Wing Chun' as unique holiday experience

Video by Lin Jianping

As Christmas lights illuminate the streets of Toronto, Canada, a different kind of cultural glow is warming the hearts of theatergoers: the Shenzhen-produced dance drama “Wing Chun” that is having its 20-performance run in the North American city.The Meridian Hall, where “Wing Chun” is being staged, is decorated with Christmas trees. Photos by Zhang Yu unless otherwise stated

For many locals, the Chinese performance, blending martial arts with contemporary dance, has become an unexpected highlight of the holiday season.

Alexander Goodwill, a Toronto resident, attended the performance recently as a birthday treat. “It was super nice. Super lovely,” Goodwill said. “We both enjoyed it very much. It was a lovely birthday present.”

He was accompanied by Aria Goodwill, who was visibly moved by the production’s intensity. While the holiday season is usually associated with traditional Nutcrackers and carols, the Goodwills found the Chinese action drama to be a refreshing alternative.

“The show was great,” Alexander said. “The choreography was amazing. The action is amazing. It’s very dramatic.”

Aria agreed, noting the exceptional skill on display. “It was very impressive,” she said. “Also the actions and everything, quite exceptional.”

A sign is posted next to a Christmas tree at the Meridian Hall. Theatergoers can claim a free canvas bag as a Christmas gift after watching the show and sharing their thoughts on social media platforms.

The production’s appeal, however, extends far beyond casual theatergoers. It has also struck a chord with local artists and martial artists who appreciate the technical difficulty of the production.

In separate interviews, attendees with professional backgrounds in dance and combat expressed their admiration for the show’s execution.

Michael Grant, a taekwondo black belt who attended with his wife Marie, a dancer. Grant, whose original martial arts training incorporated kung fu, found a personal connection to the narrative. “We’ve watched all Ip Man movies, so we can relate to the storyline,” Grant said.

For these experts, the emotional weight of the performance was just as impactful as the physical feats. Both Marie and Michael pointed to specific scenes of sacrifice and friendship as the most touching moments of the night.

“I think the part where the guy got shot... that part was very touching,” Marie said. “They acted out. It was believable.”

The Meridian Hall is packed with audience members. Zhou Hongsheng

The presence of “Wing Chun” in Toronto has also sparked conversations about cultural exchange. Marisa Ricci, one of the professional dancers interviewed, noted the scarcity of international art in the region.

“I think there’s not enough international art coming to Canada,” she said. “So I really appreciate it.”

With Christmas approaching, the audience members also sent their greetings.

“Hello from Toronto to Shenzhen,” Alexander Goodwill said. “Merry Christmas. I hope everyone has an excellent holiday season and a new year from us. All our love.”

“Merry Christmas to everyone from ‘Wing Chun,’ Canada. It’s an excellent drama performance, gotta come out and see it. Bring your family out if you ain’t got nothing to do at home. This is a great Christmas present you can give to them,” said Marie Grant. 

Grant also offered a warm blessing to the cast and crew: “Merry Christmas to the ‘Wing Chun’ drama. It’s a show that no one wants to miss. Come out to experience what we have experienced. Have a merry Christmas.”

“Thank you for coming to Toronto. We really liked it. I wish you all the best and happy holidays,” said Josh Bagalacsa, a martial artist who came to watch the show with Ricci.

Josh Bagalacsa and Marisa Ricci share their feelings about “Wing Chun” and extend holiday greetings after the show at the Meridian Hall on Monday evening, local time.