Case Study On The First Generation Of Chinese Dance Artists Since 1949 And Research Into Dance Performance Training

Dance is an art form expressing feelings and creating images through physical movements. Performance, the re-creation by dancers after choreography, is critical to the success of dance works.During the process of research into the rules and essence of dance performance, the first generation of Chinese dance artists since 1949 has made a great achievement. Some representatives among them have provided us with extremely valuable and live experiences through their unique artistic practice. It takes a special position and plays a special role in the contemporary history of Chinese dance. However, this area still lacks of enough attention and systematic study. Comparing with technique and skills, a common reality today for the young dancers is the weak of cultural and artistic expression, which will restrict the progress of dance art with no doubt. Accordingly, it becomes increasingly urgent and important to review the path that the first generation of Chinese dance artist has gone through, collect their true ideas and learn their precious experiences.This dissertation includes a case study on the representative Chinese dance artists of the first generation since 1949. On the basis of analysis and comparative study on their art career, artistic style, performance experiences, books and speeches, it concludes both creative personality and common rules by transforming the "ephemeral" dance performances into theory carried by alphabetic characters. The purpose is to pass their excellent personalities and outstanding contributions down to the younger generation. It will not only enhance their artistic accomplishment and innovative ability, but also encourage them to think and explore a way to develop dance performance training to a higher level.This dissertation consists of three chapters. Following the concept of "dance inherited by artists" by Prof. Zi Huayun and the historical research method, the first chapter includes case study on Zhao Qing, Chen Ailian, Zi Huajun, Ayitula, Modegema and Zhang Jun. It objectively analyzes and describes their outstanding achievements and unique performing styles through face-to-face interviews.Following the dance choreoecology research method and comparative art study method, the second chapter analyzes common historical background, core values and spirit of dedication of the first generation of Chinese dance artists, as well as their individual cultural background, life experience and distinctive creation according to deeply inheriting and extraordinary diligence. It also makes a multi-dimensional comparative study on dancers today and points out existing problems. Following the choreoecology research method of "factor decomposition and refinement" and "integration" and using the "Three Major Drama Systems" of Stanislavsky, Brecht and Mei Lanfang for reference, the third chapter combines different opinions of relevant artists and makes proposal to enhance dance performance training, including physical movement decomposition traming, selected repertoire course, performing elements training, character performing training and comprehensive cultural education, etc.This dissertation aims to effectively summarize performance experiences of the first generation of Chinese dance artists since 1949, complete preliminary research into dance performance training and try to make a significant contribution to dance development.