Meet Yue Zhu | Choreographer&director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yue Zhu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yue, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have always aspired to document dance to preserve this exquisite art form. It is for this reason that I ventured into creating dance films, hoping to convey the allure of dance through visual mediums to a broader audience. Dance films are not merely an extension of artistic expression but also a means to archive and promote dance culture. By amalgamating dance with cinema, I can showcase the elegance of dance on a more expansive platform, capturing every nuanced movement and emotion.

My professional experiences have only intensified this passion. I have been involved in various projects, such as directing and choreographing dance films like “One Human Show” and “However,” and contributing to the Dance Camera West Visibility Grant Program. Through these projects, I have witnessed the profound synergy between dance and film, where each frame and every dance step coalesce to narrate a compelling story. These endeavors have enabled me to explore new dimensions of storytelling and artistic expression, further solidifying my dedication to this career path.

Additionally, I have collaborated on works like “Fall into My Palms” and “Dancing Variations,” and have created my own piece, “Formula.” Pursuing an artistic career has afforded me opportunities to collaborate with exceptionally talented individuals, glean insights from diverse perspectives, and incessantly push the boundaries of my creativity. The joy of creating something that can inspire, provoke thought, and unite people is unparalleled, and it is this joy that propels my commitment to my artistic endeavors.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art represents a unique amalgamation of dance and film, capturing the ephemeral beauty, emotion, and narrative power of dance through the cinematic lens. What distinguishes my work is my dedication to preserving the transient nature of dance in a form that can be repeatedly appreciated and treasured. This synthesis allows me to highlight the intricate details of movement and emotion that might otherwise be overlooked in live performances.

During my tenure at CalArts, I was fortunate to receive invaluable guidance and support from Francesca Penzani, Rosanna Gamson, and Dimitri Chamblas. Their expertise and mentorship were instrumental in my artistic development. CalArts provided a vibrant and nurturing environment where I could freely explore and refine my artistic expression. It was here that I learned to seamlessly integrate dance with film, using visual storytelling to convey deeper narratives.

My professional journey has been replete with both triumphs and challenges. The path to my current standing was far from easy, with numerous obstacles along the way. One significant challenge was gaining recognition in a highly competitive field. To overcome this, I concentrated on honing my skills, collaborating with talented artists, and relentlessly pushing the boundaries of my creativity. Throughout these endeavors, my mentor Javier De Frutos offered unwavering support and guidance, providing the insights and encouragement I needed to persevere.

These experiences have imparted several crucial lessons. First, persistence and resilience are vital when facing adversity. Second, collaboration and learning from others can profoundly enhance one’s artistic growth. Lastly, remaining true to one’s vision and passion is essential for creating meaningful and impactful art.

I want the world to understand that my work is driven by a profound love for dance and a desire to share its beauty and emotional depth with a wider audience. My story is one of dedication, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. Through my films, I aspire to inspire and connect with people, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers to touch hearts and minds globally.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In Downtown LA, top attractions include The Broad, a contemporary art museum, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall, known for its stunning architecture. History enthusiasts should visit Olvera Street and Union Station to experience the rich history and beautiful architecture. The Last Bookstore is also a must-see, offering a unique shopping experience. For dining, 71Above is a high-end restaurant with panoramic city views. Otium offers creative cuisine, and Bestia is famous for its house-made charcuterie and artisanal pizzas. Redbird, located in the historic Vibiana cathedral, serves modern American dishes, while The Varnish is a hidden speakeasy known for its intimate atmosphere and crafted cocktails.

In Santa Monica, I recommend visiting the iconic Santa Monica Pier, which features an amusement park, aquarium, and beautiful ocean views. Relaxing at Santa Monica Beach or biking along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is also a great option. For dining, The Misfit is a lively spot offering delicious American dishes, and The Lobster is renowned for its fresh seafood and stunning Pacific Ocean views.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate this shoutout to Dance Camera West, an organization that has played a pivotal role in my artistic journey. Their unwavering support and commitment to promoting dance films have provided me with invaluable opportunities to showcase my work and connect with a broader audience. The Dance Camera West Visibility Grant Program, in particular, has been instrumental in enabling me to explore new dimensions of dance and film.

Additionally, I want to express my profound gratitude to my mentor, Javier De Frutos, who has offered endless help and guidance throughout my artistic path. His insights and expertise have provided valuable direction for my creations, allowing me to continuously grow and progress.

I also want to thank the incredible collaborators and mentors I’ve had the privilege of working with, such as those involved in projects like “Fall into My Palms” and “Dancing Variations.” Their creativity, dedication, and passion have been a constant source of inspiration and have greatly enriched my artistic endeavors.

Website: https://yuezhu.net

Instagram: @Yuezhu_dance

Linkedin: Yue Zhu

Other: IMDb @Yue Zhu (IV)

Image Credits
Yikai Wu
Bo Nawacharee
Yue Zhu
Judy Kim
Yuan Kuang