Zhang Yu

JeniZhang13@163.com

THE acclaimed Shenzhen dance drama “Wing Chun” commenced its North American debut Tuesday evening, local time, at Meridian Hall in Toronto, launching a 20-performance run in the region.

The production, which synthesizes martial arts with contemporary dance, was presented to a diverse audience that responded with sustained applause. The premiere precedes the 10th anniversary of friendly exchanges between Shenzhen and Toronto in 2026.

“I’m very impressed with the quality of the production. Thank you to everyone involved in producing the show and sharing it now with audiences here in Canada,” commented Frank Scarpitti, mayor of Markham, a city north of Toronto.

“I thought it was beautiful. The choreography was impeccable,” said William Wensley, a Toronto resident. “I would recommend anyone to see it.”

Dmytriy Pereklita, co-founder of dkstudio architects, noted the production has renewed his appreciation for Chinese culture. “I feel inspired. It’s like seeing a beautiful piece of art and a beautiful piece of Chinese culture. It made me fall in love with Chinese culture all over again.”

“What impressed me most was the perfect balance between martial arts and dance — especially the master’s performance. It was beautiful, powerful, and amazingly executed,” he added.

The Toronto engagement represents a new breakthrough for the production, which will celebrate its 300th global performance during this residency.

Created in 2022 by the Shenzhen Opera and Dance Theater, “Wing Chun” features two gripping, inter-woven tales about the relentless pursuit of dreams. A pulse-pounding blend of dance, martial arts, and cinematic staging with breathtaking visuals, this acclaimed production has been hailed by critics worldwide for its brilliant fight scenes, outstanding cast, and intricate design elements.

As part of its commitment to community engagement and social responsibility, “Wing Chun” is donating blocks of tickets to nonprofit organizations, bringing the transformative power of the arts to patients, families, caregivers, and frontline healthcare workers.

Recipients include the Canadian Cancer Society, the SickKids Foundation, Southlake Health, the Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation, the Chinese Cultural Center of Greater Toronto, and the Center for Addiction and Mental Health.

Shows will continue through Jan. 4, 2026, and the milestone 300th performance is scheduled for Jan. 4.

This cultural presentation occurs as Shenzhen prepares to host international dialogues during the 2026 APEC meetings, highlighting the city’s multidimensional global engagement.