Silk Bridge
We saw Jackson Pollock’s “Convergence” for a split second before the squeak of our companion’s sneakers provided his unequivocal opinion. While no docent-imparted context would have enhanced his appreciation, we are certain
Silk Cascade, a dance piece inspired by Pollock’s action paintings, would have left his brain agape. Combining Chinese tradition with modern movement, members of the Lily Cai Dance Company wield rippling silk scarves like splashes of paint — fluid, bright, and dynamic. As the bedlam of colors and dancers are added to the stage, the lively energy becomes artistic frenzy. Then, suddenly, in a snapshot, you see it, the Pollock canvas rendered in silk, and there is no doubt as to the firm, brilliant hands that guided both.
Silk Cascade is reprised tonight along with Xing, the latest chapter in Cai’s edgy revamping of traditional fan dances; and the world premiere of
Shanghai Women, which explores the evolution of women from virtuous matriarch during the Qing dynasty to worldly
modeng xiaojie during the roaring ’20s, and beyond.
— Silke Tudor
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