The critically acclaimed Chinese dance drama Only Blue and Green premiered in the United States with back-to-back performances at the Civic Theatre in San Diego from Tuesday to Wednesday. This debut marked the conclusion of the production's 2024 international tour and enjoyed a warm reception from an audience of over 2,000, celebrating the New Year with the elegance of Eastern art.

Inspired by the iconic Northern Song Dynasty painting A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains, Only Blue and Green reimagines the millennium-old masterpiece through a contemporary artistic lens. Since its 2021 premiere, the production has been performed over 650 times worldwide, earning widespread public acclaim.

Dance drama Only Blue and Green concludes U.S. premiere in San Diego (Photo: China Oriental Performing Arts Group)

The audience was captivated by the poetic choreography and intricate staging, which brought to life the story of Wang Ximeng, a young artist from the Northern Song Dynasty, as he created the legendary A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains.

The production’s stunning visuals and profound artistry drewwaves of applause, with many attendees expressing admiration for its portrayal of Chinese aesthetics.

Ahead of the premiere, the cast and crew of Only Blue and Green engaged in a cultural exchange at San Diego’s Xingjian Dance Studio on Monday.

The event featured masterclasses and interactive sessions, where directors Zhou Liya and Han Zhen, along with key performers, shared insights into the production’s creative process and techniques. The event also highlighted the integration of traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern stagecraft.

“The beauty of this production lies in its universal language,” said Zhou. “Audiences worldwide can connect with its essence through the performers’ physical expressions. Art transcends borders and speaks directly to the heart,” she added.

Having toured Singapore, Turkey, and Russia earlier in 2024, Only Blue and Green continues to captivate global audiences. Following its San Diego debut, the production is set to perform in Los Angeles and New York, further showcasing the timeless charm of Chinese culture on the international stage.

Only Blue and Green is widely regarded as a cultural ambassador for China, bridging traditional heritage and modern innovation through the universal language of art.