LADY WHITE SNAKE

The Shanghai Grand Theatre’s production of Lady White Snake, directed by ZHO with artistic direction by TAN YuanYuan, made its U.S. debut at the Koch Theater in Lincoln Center. The ballet tells the story of an old Chinese folktale while adding a fresh, modern interpretation to the classic tale.

With stunning choreography by WANG Peixian and captivating music by XU Zhong, the performance transports audiences into a world of love and intrigue. The rich costumes by Viola ZHANG, which I will discuss more about later, and the set design by GAO Guangjian further enhance the ethereal atmosphere, making it a visually mesmerizing experience.

My favorite moments from Lady White Snake were when I forgot I was watching a ballet. A grey, dismal grocery store, women robed in modest slate dresses pushing shopping carts with an emptiness behind the eyes. A thunder strike moves Lady White, now center stage, juxtaposing the other women in the grocery store as she draws us in with elongated arms and legs as she stands boldly with presence. Then the space transforms into a sleek modern bedroom, Lady White’s husband comes home inebriated and makes advances on Lady White.

She rejects his advances, and the husband retaliates by seeking out a psychologist’s help. The stage transforms
to an office, where Lady White is now preyed upon by the psychologist and her husband. The psychologist hypnotizes her, and under hypnosis, we are brought to a bright, beautiful lake where we find the woman in green.

These scenes in Act One felt cinematic, a marriage of heightened everyday movement and ballet. The way Lady White Snake told a story was unlike any ballet I’ve seen before. A blend of theatrical physical storytelling and traditional ballet.The costume designs by Viola Zhang were so chic and innovative, redefining ballet costuming. One of note, the psychologist wore a long, relaxed white button-up and black, flowy, wide-leg pleated pants.

The costume looked like it came right out of a magazine, and moved effortlessly with him as he danced. Lady White Snake was unfortunately only at Lincoln Center for two days and three performances, but if you happen to see this production coming to a city near you, it’s more than worthy of your time and attention.

EYE ON THE ARTS, NY — Frankie Lehr