UJ Arts & Culture, on behalf of the University of Johannesburg, is proud to host an extraordinary showcase of Wu Opera and traditional Chinese folk arts on 22 September from 16:30 to 18:30 at the Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre, UJ Arts Centre APK. This one-time-only performance brings stories, legends, and festive traditions to life through dynamic displays of theatre, dance, martial arts, and music.
“This collaboration is a testament to the meaningful partnerships and international cultural exchanges that are brought to life at the UJ Arts Centre. By welcoming artists from across the world to our stages, we create opportunities for dialogue, learning, and celebration that enrich both our audiences and our creative community,” says Pieter Jacobs, Head of UJ Arts & Culture.
Programme Highlights include:
“9-Pieced Segmented Dragon” – A spectacular dragon dance that blends power, agility, and auspicious symbolism, performed to Wu Opera melodies.
“The Goddess of Heaven Scatters Flowers” – A graceful long-silk dance inspired by ancient mythology.
“Divergent Path (Sancha Kou)” – A martial art classic performed in complete darkness with only a table and chair as props.
Suona Solo: “Picking Dates” – A lively folk piece that captures the joy of autumn harvests.
“The Sedan Ride” – A comedic exchange between sedan carriers and a bride, filled with humour and charm.
“Lyu Bu Tries the Horse” – The legendary general tames the fierce Red Hare steed with martial skill.
“Dang Ma” – A Song Dynasty tale showcasing the martial arts of male and female performers.
“Three Triumphs Over the Skeletal Demon” – An excerpt from Journey to the West, where Sun Wukong rescues his master in a dramatic battle.
Event Details
Date: Monday, 22 September 2025
Time: 16:00 for 16:30 until 18:30
Venue: Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre, UJ Arts Centre APK
Seating is limited, and booking is essential.
About UJ Arts & Culture
UJ Arts & Culture, a division of the Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture (FADA) produces and presents world-class student and professional arts programmes aligned to the UJ vision of an international university of choice, anchored in Africa, dynamically shaping the future. A robust range of arts platforms are offered on all four UJ campuses for students, staff, alumni and the general public to experience and engage with emerging and established Pan-African and international artists drawn from the full spectrum of the arts.
In addition to UJ Arts & Culture, FADA (www.uj.ac.za/fada) offers programmes in eight creative disciplines, in Art, Design and Architecture, as well as playing home to the NRF SARChI Chair in South African Art & Visual Culture, and the Visual Identities in Art & Design Research Centre. The Faculty has a strong focus on sustainability and relevance, and engages actively with the dynamism, creativity and diversity of Johannesburg in imagining new approaches to art and design education.