‘Oriental Legend’ Dazzles at Ottawa Premiere

The Ottawa premiere of Oriental Legend, Image China’s production performed by the Beijing Dance Drama and Opera Theatre, opened its four-show run last night on the stage of the Canadian Museum of History.

Before the curtain rose, the audience heard opening remarks from His Excellency Wang Di, Canada’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China. Ambassador Di welcomed guests and reflected on the 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and Canada—years marked, he said, by cooperation that has built “bridges of friendship with goodwill and sincerity”. He emphasized the importance of people-to-people exchanges in fostering understanding and sustaining strong bilateral relations.

The inspiration for Oriental Legend lies in the 1995 archaeological discovery of an ornate silk-woven armguard, believed to have belonged to a high-ranking military official during the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD). Remarkably preserved, the forearm piece is a rare artefact that showcases the extraordinary skill of artisans from the period. The production builds a rich narrative around this discovery, inviting audiences to step back in time and experience a pivotal chapter of China’s cultural history.

The performance opens in the present day, with archaeologists working at a dig site where the treasured armguard is unearthed. Through striking video projections and sound design, the story then shifts seamlessly to the ancient walled city of Jingjue.

Set against a backdrop of conflict and invasion, the narrative unfolds through the rivalry between two military leaders: Feng (Shi Renqui), the armguard’s original owner, and Jian Te (Zhu Donggehao), the son of a northern tribal chief. Their confrontation is brought vividly to life through powerful male ensemble dances that crackle with tension—choreography that is at once forceful and fluid, evoking combat without sacrificing grace.

Moments of levity arrive with the appearance of three highly entertaining Buddhist monks, who discover the soldiers in the desert and guide them to Jingjue. There, they encounter the spirited Chunjun (Li Xiahui), daughter of the city’s leader. Playful and charming, Chunjun deftly flirts with the rival warriors, softening their animosity and setting the stage for unexpected alliances.

Costume design by Yang Donglin, Chief Designer of the China National Opera and Dance Drama Theatre, is nothing short of breathtaking. Flowing fabrics, intricate beadwork, and ornate headdresses worn by Chunjun and the female dancers transport the audience to a distant, mythical world. The warriors’ costumes are equally striking—authoritative and imposing—while details such as Jian Te’s dreadlocks and headpiece heighten the visual impact.

The choreography is consistently impressive, with one standout sequence depicting the rebuilding of Jingjue’s protective wall. Using massive ropes extending into the stage wings, the dancers vividly convey both the physical strain and the collective effort required. The scene is a masterful expression of collaboration and resilience.

Oriental Legend is a stunning production that meaningfully bridges cultures. Language is no barrier to understanding its message: true strength lies in unity, cooperation, and placing the needs of the community above individual ambition.

As the archaeologists reappeared in the final moments, the audience sensed the journey was drawing to a close. What followed was a well-earned standing ovation, filled with applause and cheers.

Oriental Legend has three more performances in Ottawa before continuing its tour. Tickets are still available and can be purchased using this link.