Chun Wai Chan, the first Chinese principal dancer in the New York City Ballet (NYCB), performed at the Huizhou Culture & Arts Center on the evening of July 21. Leading a cast of 11 world-class dancers—including principals Tiler Peck, Mira Nadon and Roman Mejia—Chan presented gems of NYCB repertory to a packed audience, showcasing elegance and strength through every lift and pirouette.
For Chan, this performance was more than a stop on a global tour. It was the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream to bring top-level international ballet back to the place where his journey first began.
A bridge between East and West
Chan left his hometown, Huizhou City, at the age of 12 to pursue formal dance training. His path took him from Guangzhou to the Houston Ballet Academy and eventually to New York, where he rose to the rank of NYCB principal dancer in less than 8 months. Yet, despite reaching the heights of the global dance world, his thoughts frequently drifted back to Guangdong.
Among the evening's highlights was Chan's original choreography, "The Butterfly Lovers." Chan danced alongside an international partner, translating ancient Chinese folklore into the expressive vocabulary of classical ballet. Visiting dancers described the piece as an Eastern counterpart to "Romeo and Juliet."
Mira Nadon and Chun Wai Chan perform a duet of "Apollo."
Mira Nadon and Chun Wai Chan perform a duet of "The Butterfly Lovers."
"The art fusion already exists invisibly," Chan said. "Just by standing on stage as an Asian dancer performing Western high art, that cross-cultural bridge is naturally built."
Sharing Huizhou with the world
Beyond the stage, Chan turned the visit into a cultural exchange. Before the performance, he released a self-shot video highlighting Huizhou's scenic coastlines, ancient wells and historical heritage, which drew thousands of shares and warm praise from social media users. Local cultural authorities responded in kind, visiting the theater to present Chan with traditional specialties.
Following the final curtain call, Chan led his fellow dancers on a tour of local landmarks, including Huizhou West Lake and Riverside Park, introducing them to the city's lush greenery and relaxed rhythm.
Chun Wai Chan and his fellow dancers strike a classic swan dance pose in front of Echeng Bridge in Huizhou.
Chun Wai Chan and his fellow dancers pose for a photo in front of an ancient building in Huizhou.
"I've always believed my true dream was to bring my colleagues home— to show my people what I've worked so hard for, and to show international artists the warmth of Huizhou," Chan said. "Wherever I go, I carry the spirit of my hometown, proving that someone from Huizhou can shine anywhere in the world."
Author | Dong Han
Video Editor | Dong Han
Video & Photos | Huizhou Daily, Huizhou Fabu
