1984

Taking inspiration from the novel 1984, my intention is to convey a sense of deprivation of freedom and individuality, which extends beyond the political context depicted in the book. I aim to explore the concept of individuality within the context of my generation. Growing up surrounded by other Chinese parents and friends, it often feels like we lose the ability to derive joy from learning.

The pervasive “Chinese education” mindset compels us to approach learning as a mere checklist of tasks, leading to high expectations and anxiety from a young age. Many of us are compelled to conform to certain expectations, suppressing our own concerns and challenges, our own ways of living a life. Instead of embracing life as an enjoyable journey of exploration, learning, and personal growth, we find ourselves constrained in a bubble.
— Hannah Tang

Dance: Hannah Tang Directed by: Faye Hu, Polly Lee, Manasvi Singh Cinematography: Faye Hu & Forest Kai Edited by: Polly Lee Dance Advisor: Christina Markowski Film Supervisor: Patrik Izing

Fire and Ice

This dance metaphorically depicts the end of the world through desire and indifference by describing the unpredictability of fire and the steadiness of ice. The song was chosen because of its fantasy feeling with a build-up of anticipation for the world to end. Through my dance, I hope to convey the emotions of fear and tragedy, as it has become a growing topic amongst younger people as different conflicts arise. The colours of the costumes were inspired by the concept of fire and ice with the orange bunt top and the dark blue shorts. During the choreography process, I imagined a regular citizen being manipulated by the desire for fire and the indifference of ice. I drew inspiration from the underlying messages of the poem to help inform my dance; however, towards the end, I focused more on the emotion the poem communicated. I included both curved and straight spacial pathways to illustrate how the course of destruction can be both foreseeable and unpredictable. As the audience watches this dance, I hope they can reflect on the conflicts in the world or within their lives.
— Isabel So
  • Dance: Isabel So

  • Directed by: Forest Kai

  • Cinematography: Aaron Diao

  • Edited by: Eric Leng

  • Dance Advisor: Christina Markowski

  • Film supervisor: Patrik Izing