Ballet lovers in New York City had the chance to experience one of China’s most beloved folktale as Hong Kong Ballet brought the U.S. premiere of The Butterfly Lovers to the stage of the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center. Presented by China Arts and Entertainment Group (CAEG), this new ballet is a sweeping story of love, sacrifice, and transformation, told through dance, live orchestral music, and breathtaking scenery. Thru August 25, 2025
A Legendary Love Story Brought to Life
Sometimes called the “Chinese Romeo and Juliet,” The Butterfly Lovers tells the story of Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai. Zhu, an aristocratic young woman, disguises herself as a boy to study at a prestigious academy, where she meets Liang, a humble scholar. What begins as friendship soon blossoms into love—but strict family duty and an arranged marriage stand in their way.
Their fate is tragic, yet transcendent: when Zhu throws herself on Liang’s grave, the two are transformed into butterflies, free at last to be together forever.
Music, Dance, and Design in Harmony
The ballet’s original score, composed by TIAN Mi, draws inspiration from the world-famous Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto. The New York City Ballet Orchestra, conducted by LIO Kuokman, brings the music to life with sweeping emotion.
Visually, the production was a feast for the eyes. Academy Award-winning designer Tim YIP (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) has created cinematic sets and costumes that weave together traditional Chinese imagery with contemporary artistry, creating a dreamlike world where past and present meet.
Why This Premiere Matters
This production has already been recognized at home in Hong Kong, winning six major awards at the 2025 Hong Kong Dance Awards, including Outstanding Choreography, Outstanding Large Venue Production, and Outstanding Set and Costume Design.
New York audiences were the first in the U.S. to experience this award-winning fusion of ballet, Chinese aesthetics, and universal storytelling. We believe that this ballet will soon become a staple production of many ballet ensembles throughout the world.
About Hong Kong Ballet
Founded in 1979, Hong Kong Ballet is one of Asia’s premier dance companies, performing classics, neoclassical works, and innovative new ballets. Under Artistic Director Septime Webre, the company tours internationally and has become known for its dynamic mix of tradition and innovation. Learn more at hkballet.com.
