Under Siege

Under Siege is a visually striking dance-theatre piece by renowned choreographer Yang Liping. Inspired by a legendary battle from Chinese history, the production blends traditional Chinese performance styles—including Peking Opera and martial arts—with modern dance and theatrical storytelling.

The stage design features hundreds of hanging scissors that shift to reflect the changing atmosphere, while a live paper-cutter crafts Chinese characters to guide the narrative. With elegant costumes designed by Tim Yip and a rich visual palette of red, gold, and black, the production is both dramatic and poetic.

The choreography includes a mix of group sequences and expressive solos, with standout performances that bring emotional depth to the story. Under Siege offers a unique and imaginative take on a classic tale, balancing tradition with innovation.