NIAGARA FALLS, Ontario, October 10, 2024 (Ecnetnews.com)
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The international sensation My Mulan, a multi-season dance production, continues to captivate audiences across North America. Now in its sixth season, with 20 successful performances, My Mulan has established itself as a unique and innovative show. By weaving together, the stories of two women from different eras—Mulan from ancient China and Michelle, a modern woman—the production showcases the legendary tale of Mulan and a contemporary narrative of self-discovery and empowerment.
The dancers are at the heart of this incredible production—an ensemble composed of international stars, professional Canadian talent, and emerging local dancers. Their diverse backgrounds and dedication to the show create an artistic synergy that has helped shape My Mulan into its success today.
International Stars and Local Talent: A Fusion of Expertise and Fresh Energy
The magic of My Mulan lies not only in its story but also in the remarkable diversity of its cast. The production has drawn world-class dancers from the United States, Canada, and China, each bringing their unique expertise to the stage. Alongside these seasoned professionals are local dancers, many performing in a significant production for the first time. The blend of seasoned and emerging talent has created a vibrant and dynamic cast, adding depth and energy to every performance.
Kealan Mclaughlin, one of the production’s lead dancers, has portrayed the General for four seasons. As a professional dancer with extensive experience on international stages, Mclaughlin is no stranger to complex roles. Still, he describes his time with My Mulan as one of his most rewarding career experiences.
“Performing in My Mulan has been a true highlight,” Mclaughlin said. “The dedication and passion Lin Li and Hu Xu, the husband-and-wife team behind this production, bring to their work is truly inspiring. Their vision for this show has created a solid foundation for us to explore our characters more deeply. It’s amazing to see how each season brings something new—new choreography, new ideas, new interpretations of our roles.”
For Mclaughlin, playing the General is not just about executing perfect dance moves; it’s about understanding and conveying his character’s emotional journey, who plays a pivotal role in ancient and modern timelines.
“The character of the General is so richly written,” Mclaughlin continued. “I love how the production allows us to explore different dance styles to reflect the changing emotional landscape of the story. It’s gratifying to be part of something that pushes boundaries artistically and narratively.”
A Cultural and Artistic Fusion
What sets My Mulan apart is not only the diversity of its cast but also the fusion of dance styles that reflect both the ancient and modern storylines. The production seamlessly blends elements of classical ballet, contemporary modern dance, traditional Chinese movement, hip hop, jazz, and freestyle, creating a truly global performance that speaks to universal themes of courage, determination, and empowerment.
Producer Hu Xu emphasized the importance of this cultural fusion. “My Mulan isn’t just about retelling the story of Mulan; it’s about exploring the idea of self-determination and empowerment in different eras,” Xu said. “By using multiple dance styles, we can show how these themes resonate across time and cultures. Mulan’s struggle to define her destiny in ancient China mirrors Michelle’s struggle in the modern world, making this production so powerful.”
The choreography is designed to reflect the characters’ emotional journeys. Traditional Chinese dance evokes the grace and strength of Mulan’s world, while contemporary and hip-hop styles bring an edgy, energetic feel to Michelle’s modern-day battles. The shifts between styles create a dynamic performance that constantly engages the audience.
Looking Forward: The Future of My Mulan
As My Mulan enters its next phase, the production’s cast and crew are excited about what lies ahead. With continued performances planned and a growing fanbase, My Mulan is set to remain a highlight in the North American performing arts scene for years to come.
For dancers like Kealan Mclaughlin and Molly Levay, the journey is far from over. “There’s always something new to discover with each performance,” said Mclaughlin. “This production keeps pushing us to grow as performers, and I can’t wait to see where we take it next.”
Conclusion
At its core, My Mulan is about more than just retelling an ancient legend. It celebrates diversity, talent, and the timeless struggle for self-determination. With a cast that blends international stars, local professionals, and emerging talent, My Mulan combines a rich array of dance styles and cultural influences to create a performance that resonates deeply with audiences.
As the production looks toward the future, its commitment to artistic exploration, collaboration, and storytelling ensures that My Mulan will continue to captivate and inspire for many seasons.
Source: My Mulan
