The Nan Ping Dunhuang Dance Troupe Invited to New Zealand – Transforming into Celestial Beings to Welcome Buddhas of Ten Directions

The Nan Ping Dunhuang Dance Troupe was especially invited to Fo Guang Shan North Island to Celebrate it’s “Ten Year Anniversary of Buddha’s Birthday Celebration” on 8th and 9th April. During the two days event the troupe performed 10 dances including “Joyous Dance in Praise of the Triple Gem”, “Offerings of Six Dusts”, “Ch’an of Flower Rain” and “Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva” etc. These performances have deeply touched the hearts of the audiences.

Nan Ping Dunhuang Dance Troupe was formed in 2008 by a group of Buddhists and amateur Dunhuang dance enthusiasts. Their instructor Xu Yuzhen is the Second Term Chairperson of Gaoshun’s Dun Ping Dance Group. The group would often perform for various branch temples of Fo Guang Shan and charitable events organised by the government. Through Dunhuang dance they seek to inspire the audiences to get to know Buddhism better.

Now these dancers traveled vast distances to tirelessly support the celebration of the Buddha’s birthday in the North Island. Their elegant moves emulated the twirling motions of celestial maiden’s spreading of flower petals, which is offering to both the Buddha and the audiences. These performances have made the day’s atmosphere even more magnificent, drawing much applause from the audiences.

Xu Yuzhen thanked the temple for providing this opportunity of cultural exchange and to make affinities with New Zealanders. Their wish is to be able to share the graceful, charming and elegant Duhuang dance with everyone so they can all have a piece of pure Dharma in their hearts.