Tangram x LSO: Bound/Unbound

New music, new movement, her stories. Join trailblazing Associate Artists, Tangram, for the premiere of a new music theatre piece by Alex Ho and Sun Keting interweaving the stories of two of China’s 19th century heroines: Afong Moy and Qiu Jin.

The Programme

Growing up with bound feet in the feudal Qing Dynasty, Afong Moy in 1834 became the first Chinese woman to be brought to America, where she was displayed before the public as a ‘Chinese Curiosity’. Half a century later, Qiu Jin, a young revolutionary, challenged the stifling Manchu culture and changed the fate of women by unbinding her feet and taking up the art of sword fighting. Poet, author of manifestos, and leader of a revolutionary community, Qiu Jin was determined to save her country from the corrupt Qing government. These two women, bound and unbound, together compose a symphonic dance, a protest against the world of patriarchy into which they were born.

The Performers

‘Truly innovative … they’re breaking down borders with stylish communication and spirit’ – RPS Young Artist Nomination 2023

‘Powerfully theatrical … unexpected and refreshing’ – Tempo Journal

‘Dazzling instrumental display’ – I CARE IF YOU LISTEN

‘Tangram revels in the untranslatable’ – VAN Magazine

Co-produced by Tangram and the LSO with generous support from the Bagri Foundation

Header image © Xiaohang Gui