--- description: Breaking news and analysis from time.com. Politics, world news, photos, video, tech reviews, health, science, and entertainment news. title: Chinese dance drama builds cultural bridge in L.A. image: https://static.time.com/v3/assets/bltea6093859af6183b/blt58985afdf3d94562/6a4b523b8df1a61fbf6e1578/49721C9C03FE488CB044C08375B16B08.jpg?branch=production&width=3840&quality=75&auto=webp&crop=16:9 --- # Chinese dance drama builds cultural bridge in L.A.  _This content was paid for and prepared by China Daily, an official publication of the People's Republic of China. The TIME editorial and advertising departments were not involved in the creation of this content._ Dancers from The Journey of a Legendary Landscape Painting react to the audience’s applause during the curtain call at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, on August 1\. ZHANG SHUO / CHINA NEWS SERVICE By RENA LI When Debbie Allen, an acclaimed U.S. actress, choreographer and the 2025 Academy Honorary Award recipient, stepped into the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, she did something rare. As executive producer of Grey’s Anatomy, Allen had cleared her production schedule so she could witness The Journey of a Legendary Landscape Painting, a poetic Chinese dance drama premiering in Los Angeles on August 1. “I am so honored to see this incredible performance. I’m so thrilled that these Chinese artists have come to America to share their culture, to share their grace and power, and inspire all of us,” she said. By the end of the evening, Allen was on her feet, applauding with joy and admiration. Her sentiment captured the essence of the night, a celebration of cultural artistry and people’s connection across countries. The dance drama is inspired by A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains, the monumental 12th-century scroll painting by Wang Ximeng, a teenage prodigy of the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). The original scroll — now housed in the Palace Museum in Beijing — has rarely been exhibited and has never traveled abroad. Presented by the China Oriental Performing Arts Group, The Journey of a Legendary Landscape Painting captivated a full house with its rich visual storytelling and emotional depth. More than a performance, it was a living expression of Chinese artistic heritage that bridges past and present, East and West. Structured in seven poetic chapters from “Unfolding the Scroll” to “Merging with the Painting,” the production follows a modern cultural historian’s journey back in time to explore the artist’s creative spirit and the philosophical richness of this masterpiece. Film director and producer Harrison Engle described the experience as “emotionally moving.” “It’s really extraordinary, the dance, choreography, design, lighting and music, all so overwhelming and so moving,” he said. “I hope that this show is welcomed by many people outside of the immediate Chinese community in the U.S. I think it would give them a whole new perspective about Chinese culture.” Through its flowing narrative and elegant choreography, the production becomes a profound reflection on artistic devotion, cultural legacy and the enduring spirit of Chinese civilization. For many audience members, the show was their first encounter with Chinese classical dance on such an expressive scale. “This show was wonderful. It’s a real art,” film producer Bogdan Szumilas said. “We need more shows like this.” Evie, a young dancer who attended the premiere, described the show as “super interesting.” “It’s definitely something I haven’t seen before,” she said. “I loved the costumes, and all the design elements were really captivating. The story was told beautifully.” The performance has already been hailed in China as a “pinnacle of aesthetics” and has enjoyed more than 700 sold-out performances since its debut in 2021\. Its international acclaim surged after the mesmerizing “Green Waist” dance segment was featured on China’s Spring Festival Gala in 2022. “I love Chinese culture,” said Lance Sterling, owner of concert venues across Southern California, including the House of Blues. “And I believe this is true Chinese culture. I hope one day my concerts can showcase such Chinese dance and performance.” His wife, Caryn Sterling, a talent manager in the entertainment industry, echoed that enthusiasm. “My eyes are wide-open, my heart is wide-open. We can’t wait to take it all in — the grace, the creativity, the detail. I think this will stay with me forever,” she said. Douglas Ivanovich, founder of World Peace One Concerts and a member of the L.A. Beverly Arts group, believes that art serves as a bridge between nations. “One of the missions of the arts is to help people understand each other better, and to elevate humanity into a more creative, peaceful and productive existence," he said. "Art is one of our best ambassadors.” As the final curtain fell, the theater known for hosting the Oscars erupted in a lengthy standing ovation. “What I saw tonight isn’t just Chinese culture, it’s universal. In today’s world, art remains one of the most powerful forces for healing and fostering connection between nations,” Allen said. 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