From Guangzhou to Moscow: 'Swan' inspires China-Russia youth to redefine fusion in stage arts

A special China-Russia cultural exchange event — the Dialogue on the Integration of Oriental Acrobatics and Western Art — was held in Moscow on April 26. Centered on the Guangzhou Acrobatic Troupe's classic production "Swan," the event brought together five distinguished guests from both countries to explore cross-border innovation in stage arts.

Artists from China and Russia pose for a group photo at the cultural event in Moscow, Russia, on April 26. [Photo by Zhou Jie]

Deng Yanlei, publicity representative for "Swan," shared insights into the creative process, performance highlights, and the troupe's artistic vision. He explained how the production breaks down the barriers between Chinese acrobatics and Russian ballet, achieving an organic fusion in performance core, aesthetic expression, and emotional delivery.

Russian master sculptor Grigory Viktorovich Pototsky described the stage presentation of "Swan" as "dynamic sculptural art using the body as medium." Drawing from his expertise in lines, structure, and East-West aesthetic integration, he discussed how such cross-disciplinary practices have inspired new directions in his own creative approach.

Emmanuel Mikhailovna Turetskaya, a well-known Russian online influencer, analyzed the role of young creators in high-level cultural exchanges in the new media era. She shared strategies for using secondary creation to enhance cultural communication and deepen mutual artistic empathy between Chinese and Russian audiences.

Luo Shaoteng, a young artist from China's Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, discussed how cross-border artistic practice has reshaped his understanding of cultural roots and artistic exploration. He introduced various exhibits at the venue, highlighting the mission of young Chinese artists in promoting cross-cultural dialogue.

Xing Kaizheng, the only Chinese member of the Turetsky Choir in Russia and a professional opera singer, shared his personal reflections on the performance of "Swan" at the Bolshoi Theatre. Drawing on his own artistic journey in Russia, he told heartwarming stories of serving as a "cultural envoy" and underscored the profound friendship embodied in grassroots China-Russia art exchanges.