| SDF is the first ever independent festival in China. Originally initiated by Jin Xing it was Purple Star Art & Communication Co. Ltd Shanghai that organized this cultural highlight for the first time in March 2006. The founder and artistic director Jin Xing is well known in China and abroad for her artistic achievements in contemporary dance. Her vision is to further develop the cultural scene in China by reinforcing the exchange with other cultures and creating a sense of appreciation for the strong cultural tradition in China.
SDF is an important step to follow this vision. The festival's mission is to present high class performing groups from different countries and thus open the Chinese audience's mind to discover the richness of other cultures. In the same time the festival fosters the exchange between international and Chinese performing artists.
In March 2006 SDF researched on the "Original Motivation" of artists from different corners of the earth. The festival looked at how choreographers with specific cultural background are influenced by their regional roots. For the first edition dance companies from Brazil, China, Germany, the Netherlands and Senegal have shown the impact of their original motivation on the artistic work.
In September 2007 the second edition of SDF will present again artists from various countries. Following this year's motto "Easy Jump" the festival will exhibit works of dance companies from China, Denmark, Israel, Sweden and Switzerland. The artistic director put a special emphasis on the Israeli dance scene. SDF will host six dance companies from Israel - among them Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company, Noa Dar Dance Groupe and Emanuel Gat Dance.
Last not least the closing event of SDF 2007 will be the world premiere of Jin Xing Dance Theatre's new creation "Made in China – The Return of the Soul".
SDF is a landmark in Shanghai's cultural scene. The festival reinforces links between international dance companies and Chinese dance professionals as well as the exchange between the invited artists and Chinese audience.
SDF is an excellent opportunity to see great artists and experience outstanding performances in Shanghai. |
