THE Hohhot Opera and Dance Theater will present dance dramas at the Guangming Culture and Arts Center two nights in a row during the upcoming New Year holiday.

‘Chi Le Chuan’

Inspired by the Northern Dynasties (386-581) poem “Song of Chi Le,” this production made its debut at the Shanghai International Arts Festival in October last year. Directed by Cao Xiaoning and structured in five parts, the story follows a young composer who aspires to create a symphony in tribute to the Chi Le Chuan prairie of Inner Mongolia. Along the way, the drama vividly portrays the region’s majestic landscapes while exploring its cultural heritage and history.

Choreographed by Liu Mengchen and featuring stage designs by Wang Ruibao that blend dreamlike visuals with modernist appeal, the performance brings to life the ancient rock paintings of Yinshan Mountain, the surging waves of the Yellow River, the melodious songs of herdsmen, and beacon fires along the winding Great Wall. Traditional Mongolian costumes, music, and dance further enrich the production.

Time: 8 p.m., Dec. 31

‘Princess Zhaojun’

This dance drama recounts the story of Wang Zhaojun, a Han Dynasty (202 B.C.-220 A.D.) beauty celebrated as one of ancient China’s “Four Great Beauties” and a renowned heroine. As a cultural emissary, she married the leader of the Xiongnu — a powerful nomadic confederation then in conflict with the Han Dynasty — to foster peace between the two sides, following the Han emperor’s decree.

Produced by China Arts and Entertainment Group Ltd., the epic features a cast of over 50 elite dancers.

Having premiered in 2016, the production has toured extensively across China. In 2017, it traveled to Mexico as the closing performance of the “Year of Chinese Culture,” earning wide acclaim. Elaborate period costumes and sets also accompanied its 2019 tour to New York City.

Time: 8 p.m., Jan. 1, 2026

Venue: Grand Theater, Guangming Culture and Art Center (光明文化艺术中心大剧场)

Metro: Line 6 to Fenghuang Town Station (凤凰城站), Exit B(Li Dan)