2008 Woodie Awards
Colorful display by Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company
Mariah Tess
Issue date: 2/28/08 Section: Arts & Entertainment
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On February 20, the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, named after its founder and choreographer, Nai-Ni Chen, graced the Bradley stage.
"Grace" is one thing the dancers definitely had. Another word that kept coming to mind was "fluid." There were no hitches in any of the dancers' movements. The solid motion coupled with the rhythmic, steady tones of the Chinese-inspired music was mesmerizing. The costumes were also very colorful, adding to the hypnotic, almost calming effect.
All of the members of the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company have impressive and diverse backgrounds. Some of them are not only dancers, but actors as well, having performed in popular productions. Some are also teachers, having taught the art form that they perform so well.
All of the performers worked well together and were obviously well-rehearsed. The determination showed on their faces as they expertly executed their craft.
Notable solo performances included "Lu Wen-Long, The Warrior" performed by Yao-Zhong Zhang. The dance itself is serious, telling the story of Lu Wen-Long, a warrior that was born to a Han military family during the Sung dynasty but abducted by the Manchurians. However, it appeared comical to some. As part of the outfit, Zhang wore a headdress with two long, protruding feathers sticking out of the top, like antennae. He resembled a Chinese dragon. The music included some yelling sounds and featured loud, high-pitched metal clanking noises. The audience chuckled occasionally. Despite being misunderstood, it was still a spectacular performance.
Another notable solo performance was done by Nai-Ni Chen herself, called "Passage to the Silk River." Wearing a white silk kimono with sleeves as long as she was tall, Chen manipulated the sleeves as part of her dance, shortening and flapping them expertly.
The last dance, "Festival," featured all the members of the company, and was truly a sight to behold. The colors were striking during this number. The dancers each used their own giant ribbon on a baton in a different color, making the ribbons fly and flow in just the right manner. At the end of the dance number, the company formed a hill and one of the members climbed to the top and waved a flag.
It was clear how much hard work these dancers had to do to get where they are today. They seemed lighter than air, especially while jumping around. They hardly made any noises, even when landing, their bare feet helped this point.
To try and describe the performance by the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company is difficult. It was truly something to see. The turnout was slightly disappointing-barely half of the Bradley was filled. For those who did go, it was an experience not easily forgotten.
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