Tibetan dance drama "Shambhala" mesmerizes over 1,000 in Athens premiere

A Greek girl enjoys herself on the stage with performers of the Chinese Tibetan dance theater production "Shambhala" at the Christmas Theater in Athens, Greece, on May 10, 2025. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

ATHENS, May 10 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Tibetan dance theater production "Shambhala" captivated an audience of over 1,000 at the Christmas Theater in Athens on Saturday night.

Directed and choreographed by renowned Chinese artist Wanma Jiansuo, "Shambhala" blends classical Tibetan dance, folk traditions, and contemporary movement. Through the performers' expressive movements, the show delves into deep philosophical themes such as life, death, and reincarnation, creating an immersive visual and emotional experience for the audience.

At the end of the show, thunderous applause echoed through the theater. Many audience members accepted the dancers' invitation to come on stage and join their celebration.

"It was a captivating show. I am very glad I watched it," said Kalli Mousouraki, a local architect attending her first live Chinese cultural performance. "Chinese civilization is great - just like ours," she added, expressing her desire to attend more events of this kind in the future.

"I learned a lot about Chinese culture. This kind of performance helps you understand the mindset of the people," said Anastasia Nikolaidis, another member of the audience.

In Tibetan culture, Shambhala, also known as "Shangri-La," means a pure land or blissful heaven in the Tibetan language. Tibetan dancer-choreographer Wanma Jiancuo once told reporters that his work of "Shambhala" depicts the spiritual pursuit of tranquility, balance, and happiness.

Following its Athens premiere, the dance troupe will continue its tour in Greece with scheduled performances in Thessaloniki on May 14 and 15. ■

Artists perform during the Chinese Tibetan dance theater production "Shambhala" at the Christmas Theater in Athens, Greece, on May 10, 2025. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)