I am a researcher on performing art.
Projects
I am also a researcher in performing arts and have served as the student Principal Investigator for three research projects: Tibetan Cultural Heritage across Time and Space, Feitian Dance along the Silk Road, and Korean Dance in Northeastern China. My work has been supported by multiple grants, such as the Center for World Performance Student Summer Research Grant, Summer Research Award from the Lieberthal-Rogel Center for Chinese Studies, Rackham Graduate Student Research Grant, and Library Student Mini-Grants at the University of Michigan.
Tibetan Cultural Heritage across Time and Space
In this project, I propose a unique approach to studying Tibetan cultural heritage by focusing on dance studies instead of conventional methods like museum and tourism studies. Through three case studies - "Reba on the Grassland" (1956), "Mysteries of Tibet" (2007), and "Tsangyang Gyatso" (2015) - I explore Tibetan dance as a contact zone that connects Tibetan culture's past with the present and bridges Tibetan and Chinese cultures across various times and spaces. I emphasize the significant role of dance artists as carriers of Tibetan cultural heritage, highlighting their contributions in researching, documenting, performing, and teaching within the context they create. Additionally, I discuss cross-ethnic collaborations between Tibetan and non-Tibetan dance artists in contemporary China since 1949, showcasing the diversity and evolution of Tibetan cultural heritage through dance.
Feitian Dance along the Silk Road
This project delves into the dance's historical roots through in-depth research, examining texts, artifacts, and archaeological findings from Dunhuang and other Silk Road areas. Cultural interpretations are a focal point, exploring the dance's symbolism in various Silk Road communities and its integration into local rituals.This project is not only revive and celebrate an ancient art form but also serve as a bridge between diverse cultures, fostering mutual respect and understanding. By exploring the dance's historical roots and reinterpreting it for contemporary audiences, this project aims to create a lasting legacy that transcends geographical boundaries and unites people through the universal language of art.
Korean Dance in Northeastern China
This project is dedicated to unraveling the rich tapestry of Korean dance in Northeastern China, a region historically intertwined with Korean cultural influences. This initiative aims to delve deep into the unique dance traditions of the Korean community residing in this area, exploring their origins, evolution, and cultural significance. This project seeks to document the historical context of Korean dance in Northeastern China. By examining ancient texts, oral traditions, and community narratives, the project aims to trace the roots of these dance forms, shedding light on their cultural adaptations and preservation.