There is nothing more difficult than living up to expectations. Dunhuang: In Search of Light is the first new full-length production for Hong Kong Ballet by the husband-and-wife choreographic team of Ricky Hu Songwei and Mai Jingwen since the multi-award-winning The Butterfly Lovers in 2024. The exceptional success of its predecessor raised the bar, and while the new work offers plenty to enjoy, it does not reach the same level.
On the plus side, the lush, atmospheric score by Tian Mi (composer of The Butterfly Lovers) cleverly incorporates traditional Chinese instruments. The visuals are stunning, with Jonathan Wong’s outstanding sets, including an awe-inspiring giant Buddha head, well-imagined costumes by Dieuweke Van Reij and video by Dan Fong making effective use of the auditorium and stage. The final image of Guanyin descending from heaven is a dazzling coup de theatre.
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