The Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers will present their final home season concert, titled “Echo and Flame: Feng Huang Awakens,” on March 27 and 28, 2024, at Drexel University’s Mandell Theater in Philadelphia. This performance promises to celebrate the rich history and legacy of the company, marking a significant moment for both the dancers and their audience.
Kun-Yang Lin, founder and artistic director of the Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers, elaborated on the theme of the concert, stating, “Feng Huang in Chinese actually is eastern phoenix. It’s different than a western phoenix, because eastern phoenix never die. But eastern phoenix only sleep, so we waiting for Feng Huang to awake.” This metaphor of rebirth and resilience resonates throughout the performance, as highlighted by Katie Moore-Derkits, the executive director of the company.
Lin founded the Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers in 1998 in New York City before relocating to Philadelphia in 2008. Reflecting on the evolution of his work, he noted, “People found that the way I move, the way I construct work, has something people interested in. They found it’s a little bit different.” This unique blend of Eastern-inspired influences with contemporary dance is a hallmark of Lin’s artistic vision, which also incorporates a strong sense of social consciousness.
The concert will feature a total of five performances, including two world premieres. Among the new works is ‘Spring 101,’ which marks Lin’s 101st choreography, and a solo piece titled ‘My Home?’ The final world premiere is named ‘Fire Ritual Dance.’ Moore-Derkits emphasized the lasting impact of the company, stating, “The spirit of the company will live on through the artists.”
Notably, Lin will take the stage himself for the first time in over six years. He expressed pride in the accomplishments of the company, inviting the public to join in the celebration: “Come and join us to celebrate.”
The Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers’ “Echo and Flame: Feng Huang Awakens” is set to take place at the Mandell Theater, located in the Creese Student Center at Drexel University, at 3220 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104. For more information and tickets, interested attendees can access the official website of the Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers.
This concert is not just a performance; it is a culmination of years of artistic exploration and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers.
