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Star Returning

Lemi Ponifasio

Copyright information:Star Returning production

With breathtaking vocals and intriguing symbolism, director Lemi Ponifasio powerfully and poetically showcases the rituals and traditions of the Chinese Yi people. Rituals and songs from Yi culture are at the heart of the musical performance Star Returning, which offers a profound look at the spirituality and connection with nature and ancestors characteristic of the Yi people. 


The Book of Origins, a collection of creation stories, and the spiritual songs, essential in honoring ancestors, play a crucial role. The Torchfestival, a celebration of unity and the arrival of summer, also emphasizes themes like creation and the essence of life. Star Returning, with Ponifasio’s highly stylised visual and movement language, tells a story that connects past and present.


The project gives performers and communities the opportunity to rediscover and embrace parts of their cultural heritage that may have been forgotten or are presumed lost. Ponifasio, who was featured at the Holland Festival previously with The Crimson House (2014), Birds With Skymirrors (2011) and Paradise (2005), has over thirty years’ experience working with indigenous communities throughout the world. The visually and aurally stunning performance draws on his unique theatrical idiom in order to bring deeply-rooted traditions to life.  

dates

Wed June 25 8:15 PM

Thu June 26 8:15 PM

prices

  • default including drink from € 25
  • CJP/student/scholar incl. a drink € 18,75

information

  • 1 hour 30 minutes

Credits

concept Lemi Ponifasio direction Lemi Ponifasio design Lemi Ponifasio costumes Lemi Ponifasio sound Lemi Ponifasio poetry Jidi Maja performed by Wucaiyunxia New Culture & Art of Liangshan Culture and Tourism Group vocal performers - male actors Qubi Lahuoo (Bimo), Liu Hui, Alai Muhai, Sha Zhiguo vocal Performers - female Actors Jili Mezizha, Aluo Zuogumu, Jigen Fuze, Qiebi Erli, Hai Hongfei dance performers - male dancers Xia Jun, Shiyi Buqian, Li Huajie dance performers - female dancers Wu Zimo, Wang Qin, Peng Zhaoyuling, Hu Agamo, Yanggao Zuolamu choreography Lemi Ponifasio, cast light design Helen Todd technical direction Helen Todd video operator Alex Waghorn sound operator Alex Waghorn light operator Michael Morgan sound engineer Wang Bin technical supervision Issac Kirkwood stage manager Stella Chen Sifan tour manager Nancy Chen Simin management He Lijuan executive producer Chen Zhongwen production International Theatre Institute ITI co-production International Theatre Institute ITI, China Theatre Association, Shanghai Theatre Academy, Liangshan Culture and Tourism Group

This performance is made possible by