On September 12th, young talent Guo Guanxiang took to the stage for the preliminary round of the 11th NTD “International Chinese Classical Dance Competition,” performing a graceful and elegant solo dance titled “Dance of Rain Sounds,” interpreting the idyllic mountain and water scenery.
Two years later, the “International Chinese Classical Dance Competition” was once again held at the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center in Chester, New York, in the United States. This marked Guo Guanxiang’s second participation in the competition. He expressed feeling more relaxed and joyful this time, saying that it was a process he truly enjoyed.
At 24 years old, Guo Guanxiang, a student majoring in media at the University of Toronto, has nearly 10 years of experience in learning Chinese classical dance. Despite not majoring in dance, he has not given up on studying Chinese classical dance, participating in the competition twice and exchanging skills with top dancers from around the world.
“For me, the ranking is not the most important thing,” Guo Guanxiang emphasized the importance of progress during the competition. He mentioned that during the preparation phase, he would return to the dance school, seek help from teachers to improve his movements, and train with friends, learning new movements and techniques in the process.
During the official competition segment, he could observe other dancers’ performances live. Guo Guanxiang mentioned that watching them dance was very rewarding for him, enabling him to learn their techniques, body language, and presence on stage.
“I see myself as a young man appreciating the scenery gracefully,” Guo Guanxiang interpreted his solo performance, “Dance of Rain Sounds,” as his first attempt at the elegant style of Chinese classical dance. He explained that while the piece does not have a specific story, he incorporates his own understanding of its essence while dancing.
Imagining himself in an idyllic paradise, Guo Guanxiang sees himself as the young guardian of the land, surrounded by animals, plants, mountains, and water, bringing him immense joy as he dances for them, feeling the greatness of nature.
Reflecting on his previous competition experience where he portrayed a character, he expressed feeling more relaxed and optimistic every day due to the influence of “Dance of Rain Sounds.” To him, entering the dance state requires being very happy and having a feeling of gracefulness. This dance has helped him maintain a very optimistic state of mind.
Looking back on his journey of learning Chinese classical dance, Guo Guanxiang emphasized that his biggest change has been his ability to remain calm. Learning to dance is not just about skill but also about spiritual cultivation. He noted that it is not about who jumps the highest or flips the most, but rather about being stable. Dance has enabled him to enter a positive state and face situations calmly.
In a humorous tone, he mentioned one of the benefits of learning Chinese classical dance is weight management, which he enjoys as it promotes physical health.
Rooted in China’s five thousand years of civilization, Chinese classical dance deeply resonates with Guo Guanxiang. He expressed profound admiration for its profound and wide-reaching cultural significance. His deep love for Chinese classical dance serves as his original intention and motivation to persist in practicing and participating in competitions.