After 1,146 days, covering 71 cities and 600 performances, the dance drama “Only This Green,” inspired by the renowned painting “A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains,” reached an impressive milestone with its 600th performance on October 9 at the Guangzhou Grand Theatre. The occasion featured a themed gathering where audiences had the opportunity to engage in in-depth discussions with the performers. They shared insights into the creative journey and artistic concepts behind “Only This Green,” delving into the unique significance of the color green from their perspectives.
The primary goal of this dance drama is to highlight the beauty of traditional Chinese aesthetics through the art of dance. Its journey has taken it beyond China, showcasing the performance in international venues across countries such as Singapore, Turkey, and Russia, where it has left a lasting impression of “green” on global audiences. The 600 performances not only pay homage to the masterpiece “A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains” but also honor the wisdom and emotions of ancient scholars. The widespread appeal of “green” reflects a deep-seated appreciation for China’s rich traditional culture.
The success of “Only This Green” goes beyond impressive statistics; it has transformed from a niche favorite among dance enthusiasts into a significant cultural phenomenon. This evolution speaks to the creative team’s unwavering dedication to exploring and innovating within the realm of traditional cultural IP. Their mission transcends creating an artistic masterpiece; they aim to showcase the unique charm and vitality of traditional Chinese culture to a global audience.
With a notable presence in the media, “Only This Green” has integrated itself into everyday life beyond the stage. A film adaptation featuring the original cast premiered during the National Day holiday, achieving an impressive rating of 8.0 on Douban, making it the highest-rated film for that period. Looking ahead, an upcoming symphonic concert version of “Only This Green” is set to debut at the Poly Theatre in Beijing this November, reuniting composer Lv Liang and screenwriter Xu Junrui. This concert will blend orchestral music with traditional instruments, offering audiences a captivating auditory tapestry of green. These adaptations preserve the core elements and artistic style of “Only This Green” while boldly innovating in form, broadening the avenues of cultural expression and attracting a wider audience.
