Cloud Gate Dance Theater of Taiwan January 23, 2010

According to legend, Cloud Gate is the name of the oldest known dance in China, a ritual some 5,000 years old. In 1973, choreographer Lin Hwai-min adopted this classical name for the first contemporary dance company in any Chinese speaking community. Cloud Gate's rich repertoire has its roots in Asian myths, folklore and aesthetics, but brings a contemporary and universal perspective to these age old beliefs and stories. The company is made up of two dozen dancers whose training includes Tai Chi Tao Yin, meditation, martial arts, Chinese Opera movement, modern dance, ballet and calligraphy. Cloud Gate's Moon Water is a modern exploration of ancient Tai Chi Tao Yin movement set to Bach's Six Suites for Solo Cello.