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Journal : Global Journal of Social Learning

Ritual Embodied Historiography: Foundational Theory on the Reconstruction of Classical Han Dynasty Chinese Dance Jie, Cui; Saearani, Muhammad Fazli Taib
Global Journal of Social Learning Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): Global Journal of Social Learning
Publisher : Gema Cendekia Institute

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.71094/gjsl.v2i1.247

Abstract

The reconstruction of ancient Chinese dance, particularly from the Han Dynasty period, faces epistemological, material, and cultural challenges due to the scarcity of archives and the fragmentation of visual and textual sources. This study analyses three contemporary reconstruction works—Tonque Ji (Sun Ying), Han Painting Dance Experimental Performance (Liu Jian), and the Yong Dance Series (Tian Tian)—employing a grounded theory approach to map conceptual patterns in dance reconstruction practices. The findings propose the conceptual model of Ritual Embodied Historiography (REH), which frames reconstruction as an embodied historiographical process, wherein the body functions as a living archive, an affective medium, and a site of symbolic reactivation through engagement with material artefacts and contemporary sociocultural contexts. The study indicates that Han dance reconstruction cannot be fully understood through conventional Western frameworks but requires approaches grounded in cosmology, Confucian ritualism, and Eastern epistemology. The model extends global dance reconstruction scholarship by emphasising the body’s role as an agent of historical knowledge production in performance practice.
Integration of Cultural Elements in Professional Training for Choreographer–Teachers of Traditional Chinese Dance XiangYun, Qian; Saearani, Muhammad Fazli Taib
Global Journal of Social Learning Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): Global Journal of Social Learning
Publisher : Gema Cendekia Institute

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.71094/gjsl.v2i1.253

Abstract

Interest in traditional Chinese dance education has weakened due to the dominance of Western dance, industry fragmentation, and limited cultural integration in professional training. This study examines how cultural elements—historical context, folklore, cultural values, customary practices, and aesthetic principles—are embedded in the training of choreographer–teachers of traditional Chinese dance. A qualitative case study was conducted in three major institutions (Beijing Dance Academy, Shanghai Theatre Academy, and Minzu University of China) involving 12–15 choreographer–teachers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and curriculum document analysis, and analysed thematically using Cultural–Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) and Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRT). Findings show that cultural elements are integrated through demonstrative techniques, traditional narratives, contextual exercises, and adapted movements that ensure student safety while retaining cultural and aesthetic authenticity. These strategies strengthen social cohesion, artistic creativity, learner motivation, and cultural identity, while reinforcing the institutions’ roles as key sites of cultural transmission. Major challenges include limited resources, shortages of qualified instructors, resistance to innovation, cultural sensitivities, and performativity pressures. Theoretically, cultural integration operates as a mediating artefact within CHAT and supports culturally responsive pedagogy through CRT, enabling a balanced negotiation between innovation and tradition. The study recommends developing adaptive and sustainable training models that integrate physical safety, artistic creativity, and the digital preservation of cultural materials to broaden access and support the long-term continuity of traditional Chinese dance.