The curtain rises on an innovative new cultural performance this month at the MGM Cotai resort, with the debut of the “MGM Awakening Lion” dance drama residency.
“MGM Awakening Lion” starring Iiliwan Umar, Peng Guanyu and Zhu Jinhu, will run from 19 to 25 December at the MGM Theater. This resident show pays homage to the classic Lion Dance performances of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, integrating cutting-edge technology and lighting.
The story explores the preservation of Lingnan cultural heritage. Lingnan is the historic term referring to the shared cultural heritage of most of southern China, including Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao.
The 70-minute drama, presented by the Guangzhou Song and Dance Theatre and MGM, is based on an ethnic dance drama depicting the journey of transformation of two lion dancers in the face of love and hate, along with the dilemma of choosing between family and the nation, reflecting the perseverance of the Cantonese people.
Shi Qianjin, Artistic and Chief Director of “MGM Awakening Lion” and President of Guangzhou Song and Dance Theatre, described the new show as “a significant symbol of cultural unification in the Greater Bay Area”.
The set has also undergone all-round enhancements in terms of character modelling, video background, stage props, choreography and the use of music. Illustrating the essences of patriotic spirit with a contemporary touch, it is going to be a whole new multi-sensory journey for Macao residents and tourists.