Overall Concept

"Changan Banquet" developed by the Ever Rich Group (HKG), is a concept borne of Xian, the historic capital of China. Two thousand years later, this production is poised to make great strides onto the international stage.

Originally named Changan, Xian was China's capital city for 13 dynasties, among them the prosperous eras of Qin (221-206 B.C.), Han (206 B.C.- 220 A.D), and Tang (618-907 A.D.). First united as a country in the Qin Dynasty, China showed a true flowering culturally and economically during the Han and Tang dynasties, becoming a leading nation that would leave a strong influence on the world. The Han Dynasty codified what is now known as Chinese language, and the Tang Dynasty marked the first migration, lending the name Tang to all subsequent generations of Chinese overseas.

Within these three dynasties, seven women led legendary lives, their heroic deeds resonating for many generations. "Changan Banquet" builds upon their stories, using a contemporary dance language combined with a cinematic approach to the stage where multimedia technology joins with live performers to create stunning visual images. This production is truly a feast for all the senses.

At the very center of Chinese culture is the banquet-an occasion where old and new friends meet amid copious food and wine, where live entertainment creates a happy and pleasant atmosphere. One of China's most iconic artworks, the scroll painting entitled Night Banquet of Han Xizai, depicts that sense of royal variety and enjoyment with great detail.

As a window into traditional Chinese culture, "Changan Banquet" extends this same approach. Guests first taste a truly unique feast, after which they enjoy a grand performance. This is a true meeting of body and mind.

"Changan Banquet" also borrows from another Chinese literary classic: Dream of the Red Chamber, whose leading lady is so afraid of fallen petals being tread upon that she sweeps them together and buries them. Indeed, floral metaphors frequently follow women in Chinese culture, with these flowers becoming analogous to the seven women and their stories. In many ways, they lead us into a deeper appreciation of the splendor of those bygone days.