Chime Music and Dance concert by Hubei Opera Theatre

The Imperial Bells of China - Chime Music & Dance

The Imperial Bells of China featured over sixty seasoned musicians and dancers from China who performed in Australia for the first time on May 25, 2016. Their performance showcased the zeitgeist of the Chu State prevalent throughout the seven kingdoms period (403-221 BC) in ancient China.

A set of 2,400-year-old bronze and stone chime bells were unearthed from Duke Zeng’s Tomb in China’s Hubei province In 1978 alongside a collection of other ancient instruments. Inspired by these discoveries, Hubei Opera Theatre staged the Chime Music and Dance concert performance that brought bronze and stone chime bells to the stage alongside jian drums and dozens of other ancient instruments in combination with brilliant song and dance numbers that showcase the true style and aesthetics of ancient music during the Chu State.

This spectacular showcase recounted the history of the ethereal chime bells through magnificent production quality and exquisite ancient costumes effectively highlighted in an exciting lineup of epic displays such as sacrificial rituals, war scenes, farm life, and royal banquets.

“Transport yourself back in time 2400 years and witness a truly unique and enchanting experience. Immerse yourself in history and prepare to be astonished by the beautifully crafted Ancient Bells of China. Listen to their harmonious sounds and marvel at the spellbinding traditional dancers as they take you on a magical journey of both sight and sound all the way back to the ancient China.”