Chinese original dance drama 'Wing Chun' premiered in St. Petersburg, Russia, on April 29, captivating local audiences with its dynamic fusion of traditional Chinese martial arts and modern dance.
After a sold-out debut at the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow on April 25 and 26, the show moved to the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, becoming the first Chinese original dance drama to grace the stages of two of Russia's most prestigious theaters.
Drawing its inspiration from the concept-driven southern Chinese Kung Fu style of the same name, the dance drama blends martial arts, contemporary dance, and striking stage design, showcasing the depth and beauty of Chinese cultural heritage.
"It was a captivating show. I've seen many Chinese dance dramas, but this one truly blends drama and dance. The stage design and the way the story unfolded really drew me in," said a local theatergoer after the performance.
The Mariinsky Theater, with its 242-year history, has seen countless classical artworks come to life.
During the performance, the audience was completely absorbed.
When the curtain fell, the applause lasted for over 15 minutes, with loud cheers from the audience.
"This is unlike any ballet I've seen. The quality of this dance drama, its intricate details, and the grand scale of the set design are unlike anything I've experienced. The story really touched me, and everything on stage filled me with genuine admiration and emotion," remarked a captivated attendee.
"It's a truly magnificent piece of work, performed at the iconic Mariinsky Theatre in Russia. I think this is a wonderful gift for the people of St. Petersburg," said another theatergoer.
Since its debut in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, the dance drama has been staged in 49 cities worldwide, garnering widespread acclaim for its artistic innovation and cultural resonance.
St. Petersburg is the 49th stop on the global tour of the dance drama.
Chinese dance drama "Wing Chun" stuns Russian audience
The Iranian government is focusing on public concerns and maintaining stable supplies of essential goods amid recent protests, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said in a televised interview on Sunday.
In the city of Karaj, northwest of the capital Tehran, daily life has largely continued as normal. A video filmed by a local resident on Sunday shows food stores open and grocery shelves fully stocked.
"This is the block near my home, and there are some food stores here. Daily life continues here. Last night we did not see many protests in Karaj. Right now the city is very safe. This is a grocery store close to my home. All the food is available; nothing is in shortage. Here are noodles and different types of beans. Here are dairy products, cheese, and yogurt. I also checked other grocery stores and didn't see any shortages. Everything is available," said local resident Ali Reza.
Iranian officials have described recent disturbances as acts orchestrated by the "enemy," including some carried out by well-trained and armed "terrorists." The incidents have caused casualties among security personnel and civilians, as well as property damage.
The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani has directed authorities to severely punish the "terrorists."
Meanwhile, Iran's police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan said on Sunday that the police had raised alert levels and arrested several leaders of the troublemakers during the operations on Saturday.
President Pezeshkian noted in the interview that the normal demands of the Iranian people are reasonable and justified, but they must realize that triggering riots and carrying out terrorist acts are the enemy's attempts to undermine the country. He urged the public to remain vigilant.
Also on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned that Tehran would regard U.S. and Israeli bases and facilities in the Middle East as "legitimate targets" if Washington takes military action against Iran. His remarks followed media reports saying U.S. President Donald Trump is "seriously considering authorizing a strike" against Iran.
Iranian state media reported that at least 109 members of Iran's security forces have been killed in clashes since the protests began 14 days ago. Meanwhile, human rights groups based outside the country said the number of protesters killed has exceeded 200, though the figure could not be independently verified.
The protests initially erupted over a sharp depreciation of the rial and sweeping subsidy reforms. Iranian authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign-linked agents and sanctions imposed by the United States.
Iranian president says government focusing on ensuring supplies amid protests
