*Our ticketing platform Ludus charges a 5% service fee for all credit card transactions. To avoid this fee, visit our Box Office at 201 W. Front Street and pay via cash or check. Hours: Monday-Saturday 10AM-2PM.
“In ‘BIRDY,’ the Taiwanese choreographer LAI Hung-chung explores the limits of our desires and our sense of freedom.” – Jade Enaud, Zone Critique
“BIRDY,” a captivating dance piece by LAI Hung-chung, explores the interplay of freedom and limitations within Taiwan’s communities. LAI delves into the subtle influences of emotions and historical echoes on social harmony through a blend of societal dynamics and personal narratives.
Using a cage and dreamer metaphor, LAI bridges personal struggles with broader societal contexts. The deconstruction of traditional Chinese opera props, like the spear transformed into a cage-like “Rattan pole,” symbolizes life’s constraints.
Incorporating the “Ling Zi” pheasant feathers, traditionally signifying warrior might, LAI reinterprets their meaning to empower individuals to redefine their consciousness. This exploration of freedom and self-awareness is visually depicted through the imagery of the “Ling Zi,” subtly suggesting life’s delicate balance between limitations and aspirations.
Set to an eclectic mix of electronic and Chinese classical music, “BIRDY” reinterprets percussion and seamlessly blends Tai-chi with contemporary dance. It portrays the journey from tradition to modernity and conveys a powerful message that in this era, we can redefine class, freedom, and limitations while seeking balance and identity.
ABOUT HUNG DANCE
HUNG DANCE is a Taiwanese contemporary dance company founded in 2017 by artistic director and choreographer LAI Hung-chung. Inspired by the word “Hung (翃),” the company’s name reflects its aspiration to soar. Focusing on annual productions, international collaboration, and tours, HUNG DANCE also organizes the Stray Birds Dance Platform to foster choreographers’ creativity and connect them to global resources.
The company has earned numerous awards for its exceptional choreographic pieces “SEE YOU” and “BIRDY” in renowned competitions and festivals worldwide. It has also embarked on an extensive international tour, captivating audiences across Europe, Asia, America, and Africa with over two hundred mesmerizing performances.
HUNG DANCE’s performances are a unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements, inviting audiences to interpret, imagine, and embrace dance’s timeless beauty. LAI Hung-chung’s choreography delves into human emotions and the connection between culture and nature. By seamlessly blending elements of Chinese opera, mythology, and Tai Chi with contemporary concepts, he has created a unique dance vocabulary and training system that is sure to intrigue and captivate.
Our mission is to make art accessible to everyone. Financial assistance is available for this event through our #fieldhallforall program. Patrons can request a discount of up to 100%. Click here to apply for financial assistance.
This Giving Stock Thursday, consider making a gift of appreciated stock to Field Arts & Events Hall. Your investment helps us bring transformative performances, community events, and opportunities for creativity to Port Angeles—all while offering potential tax benefits for you.
Turn your stocks into a lasting impact on the arts!
The Waterfront Coffee Bar at Field Hall will also be closed on Saturday, November 30th.
The Estill & Reba Cornett Box Office and Field Hall Gallery will be open on Saturday, November 30th from 10AM – 2PM for Small Business Saturday.
Special discounts and holiday treats available in person on November 30th.
