Image China: Dance Drama MULAN at Opera House at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

The Chinese dance drama Mulan, based on the beloved story of family devotion, loyalty, and love, tells the tale of a young woman in ancient China who disguises herself as a man to take her father's place in the army. She embarks on a heroic journey of self-discovery that takes her into battle, yet through which she ultimately finds love, peace, and freedom. This modern interpretation reimagines the classic tale of the legendary female Chinese warrior Hua Mulan, exploring themes of self-identity and empowerment through remarkable and compelling dance numbers and exquisite music. Mulan is an artistic, choreographed re-telling of a quintessentially Chinese tale. Unlike the traditional legend of Hua Mulan, which celebrates her warrior spirit, this production also spotlights her strength in her pursuit of love and peace. Mulan is selfless, wise, and understands her moral responsibility. However, for Mulan, morality extends beyond just her small community to encompass her entire nation, and humanity overall. In December 2018, the acclaimed dance drama Mulan won China's prestigious 11th China Dance Lotus Award for Dance Drama, issued by the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles and the China Dancers Association. This represents the highest honor for dance in China. The production of Mulan is a part of China Arts and Entertainment Group’s Image China cultural exchange initiative, which aims to introduce traditional and contemporary Chinese performing arts to audiences around the world. Since its inception in 2009, Image China has presented works at venues across the globe, including Lincoln Center in New York; The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.; and performance venues in Australia, New Zealand, UK, Germany, Italy, and throughout Europe.