RENOWNED Chinese filmmaker Lu Chuan’s directorial debut in dance drama, “Tian Gong Kai Wu,” will grace Shenzhen Poly Theater from March 7 to March 9.

Already performed 25 times across 11 cities in the country, “Tian Gong Kai Wu” has garnered praise from critics and audiences alike for its captivating storyline interwoven with dance, video art, and cutting-edge stage effects.

The drama recounts the life of ancient Chinese scientist Song Yingxing and his compilation of various agricultural and handicraft skills in the 17th-century Chinese encyclopedia “Tian Gong Kai Wu.” It portrays the wisdom and industriousness of ancient Chinese.

Director Lu, acclaimed for his works such as “Kekexili: Mountain Patrol” and “City of Life and Death,” said that Song is not just a scientist but also a philosopher, whose principles and groundbreaking ideas continue to inspire contemporary audiences.

Although Song faced setbacks in the imperial examinations, his inability to secure a court position led him to pursue endeavors of greater significance. Enthralled by the ingenuity and creativity of the common folk during his visits to the imperial capital, Song began studying and documenting the technological advancements of his era in his renowned book.

The dance drama unfolds the 18 chapters of “Tian Gong Kai Wu,” showcasing the scientific and technological accomplishments during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), while also highlighting the practical skills in Chinese agriculture, handicrafts, and manufacturing.

The harmonious interplay of natural sounds, heard during farming, sericulture, smelting, and bellows operations, seamlessly blends with the score and captures the contentment ancient people derived from these activities. The stage design, blending traditional Chinese aesthetics with a contemporary flair, draws inspiration from the 123 illustrations within the book.

Co-produced by the Jiangxi Cultural Performance Group and the Beijing Dance Academy, the dance drama promises to breathe life into Song’s centuries-old masterpiece.

“The dance drama transcends language barriers, allowing people of different ages and nationalities, especially the younger generation, to gain insights into China’s scientific and technological development,” Lu said.

Time: 8 p.m., March 7-9

Venue: Shenzhen Poly Theater, Nanshan District

Metro: Line 2, 11 or 13 to Houhai Station, Exit E(Li Dan)