Incredible Performance from Award Winning Hangzhou Opera and Dance Drama

Date: Tuesday 16 June 2026

Hangzhou Opera and Dance Drama Theatre Brings To Meet the Grand Canal to Leeds

On 15 June, stage@leeds welcomed audiences for a special cultural event hosted in collaboration with the award winning Hangzhou Opera and Dance Drama Theatre. The event focused on their acclaimed dance drama To Meet the Grand Canal (遇见大运河), offering a unique insight into one of China’s most celebrated contemporary productions.

The event was made possible with the support and contributions of a number of distinguished guests and collaborators. These included Julia Wang, Head of International Market Development at the University of Leeds, Steve Ansell, Artistic Director at stage@leeds, Dr Xunnan Li, Programme Leader for MA Global Performance and Cultural Industries, Professor George Rodosthenous, Professor of Theatre Directing and Professor Ben Walmsley, Dean of Cultural Engagement and Director of the Centre for Cultural Value. The event was also honoured by the presence of Education Counsellor Liang Yan from the Manchester Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China, highlighting the importance of international cultural collaboration and exchange.

The afternoon began with a documentary screening that traced the company’s creative journey over the past decade. Attendees gained a behind-the-scenes perspective on the intense discipline required of professional dancers, highlighting the physical and emotional demands of training, the pursuit of artistic perfection, and the highly competitive environment within elite dance companies.

This was followed by an exceptional live dance demonstration, featuring selected excerpts from To Meet the Grand Canal. Performed by a large ensemble of around 40 highly accomplished dancers—each of whom has toured internationally—the showcase was a striking display of precision, discipline and artistic excellence. The performance explored the story of China’s Grand Canal (大运河), reflecting both its historical significance and the environmental challenges it has faced as a result of rapid economic growth. Through powerful and expressive choreography, the dancers brought to life themes of environmental restoration and sustainability, emphasising the importance of protecting nature and promoting greener futures.

The event concluded with a panel discussion featuring members of the production team, hosted by scholars from the University of Leeds’ School of Performance and Cultural Industries. Panel 1, focusing on music composition and dance choreography, was led by Professor George Rodosthenous and included Cui Wei (Director), Zheng Chaohua and Lei Liming. Panel 2, on playwriting and directing, was led by Steve Ansell and featured Cui Wei alongside Guo Ziming and Wang Shiyue. Panel 3, exploring global touring and performance experience, was led by Dr Xunnan Li and included Cui Wei, Yu Mengyao and He Yadan. Together, the discussions provided valuable insights into the creative process behind the production, as well as the broader role of performing arts in fostering international cultural exchange.

Open to both the public and the University community, the event attracted those interested in dance, opera and Chinese culture, as well as students and academics keen to explore the global journeys of performing arts.

What else is on?

The Business Confucius Institute at the University of Leeds regularly supports and hosts a wide range of cultural events throughout the year. From performances and exhibitions to talks and workshops, there are many opportunities to engage with Chinese culture. Why not click here to see what’s coming up next?

What is the Grand Canal?

The Grand Canal of China is the world’s longest artificial waterway, stretching over 1,700 kilometers and connecting northern and southern China. Built and expanded over many centuries, it was mainly used to transport grain, goods, and people between major cities like Beijing and Hangzhou. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains an important historical and cultural landmark.