An evening-length work, Red Typhoon reveals the powerful emotional journey of Chinese women caught in the spiritual and cultural devastation of the Cultural Revolution under Chairman Mao. Red Typhoon takes its name from the dreaded midnight sweep by Red Guard zealots, going house-to-house, arresting “intellectuals,” artists, teachers, or anyone considered to be “counter-revolutionary.”

Drawing from her own experience and that of her family, Lily Cai engages movement and color to explore the cataclysmic effect of the Cultural Revolution on generations of Chinese women, illuminating the spiritual turbulence of the time by intersecting dances of the revolutionaries with those of the victims.

Rather than interpreting specific events, Lily Cai portrays the spirit of women caught in the sweeping tide of agitation, fear, and devastation, then recovering with a fragile sense of perspective and hope. With strong dance technique, combining traditional Chinese dance elements with modern dance and ballet, Lily Cai sheds light not only on the Cultural Revolution, but also on the human experience of oppression, shattered lives, and heart-rending loss and recovery, so much a part of our world today.

Dynasties and Beyond

Xing

Family Matinee

Red Typhoon

Programs and content are subject to change. Photos by RJ Muna.