Toronto workshop brings 'Wing Chun' to local enthusiasts

The rehearsal hall at Meridian Hall in Toronto was filled with dance enthusiasts Dec. 30, as residents gathered for an immersive workshop inspired by the Shenzhen-produced original dance drama "Wing Chun."

Nearly 120 participants from three local dance institutions took part, engaging closely with performers, learning how dance blends with kung fu, and studying movements from masters representing five different martial arts styles, along with modern dance.

Tai Chi master Chen Xianzhe (C) guides attendees through a session fusing Tai Chi and dance. Photos by Geng Chaoyi

Following a brief introduction to the production, the lead performers explained how they train in martial arts and integrate it with dance.

Zeng Baisheng, who plays the mantis boxing master, shared that the style mimics the movements of a praying mantis, creating a strong martial arts visual. “To better adapt these moves for dance, we incorporate more full-body stretches into the sequences,” he said.

Chang Hongji (C), who plays Wing Chun master Ip Man, demonstrates signature movements to workshop participants.

Chang Hongji, the Wing Chun master performer, noted that breathing is central to Wing Chun. “Because Wing Chun focuses on close-range, short movements, practitioners must control their inhales, exhales, and breath retention to maintain stability. In dance, we adjust this to make the performance flow more smoothly, so finding that balance is essential.”

Wang Yuanlin, who plays the Baguazhang master, spoke about her approach to the role. Her main challenge was conveying the calm and seasoned presence of a master despite her youthful appearance. “I spent long hours sitting in front of a mirror, practicing and refining my eye expression until it felt right,” she explained.

Wang Yuanlin (C), who plays the Baguazhang master in "Wing Chun," leads workshop participants through a martial arts-inspired movement sequence.

The session reached its peak when the performers taught movements from Wing Chun, Baguazhang, Baji boxing, mantis boxing, and Tai Chi. Participants lined up in rows, closely following the artists’ demonstrations.

Chu Xia, a second-year university student in Toronto, told the Shenzhen News Group, “It’s rare to have the chance to experience Chinese dance up close, let alone meet professional dancers from China. I had so many questions for them about their stories behind the stage.” As a member of her university’s Chinese dance community, Chu added that she hopes to help promote the art form to a wider audience.

Having seen "Wing Chun" in China before, Chu plans to watch it again Jan. 4, 2026, naming the “72 tenants” ensemble scene as her favorite.

Kelly Chen particularly enjoyed learning Baguazhang during the workshop. “It was a precious experience. I was especially moved by the female master — one of the unique aspects of 'Wing Chun' is its emphasis on women’s power, which resonated with me as a female audience member.”

After attending the first Toronto show, Chen bought merchandise from the production and wore it to work, where she urged colleagues to see it. “Several were convinced and have already watched the performance,” she added. Having already seen the show four times, she plans to attend again Jan. 2, 2026, each viewing deepening her understanding of the characters.

Participants and lead performers from "Wing Chun" gather for a group photo at the close of the workshop.