The Nai-Ni Chen Dance Firm has introduced the 2026 season of its acclaimed manufacturing, Crimson Firecracker: The Legend of the Lunar New 12 months. Because the world prepares to welcome the 12 months of the Horse, this spectacular, family-friendly manufacturing will tour performing arts facilities throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania, bringing the wealthy historical past and vibrant traditions of the Chinese language Lunar New 12 months to life.
Crimson Firecracker tells the traditional story of the Nian, a terrifying monster that when descended upon villagers yearly, and the ingenious invention—crimson firecrackers—that the neighborhood created to repel it. Choreographed by the late Nai-Ni Chen, this manufacturing is a feast for the senses, that includes dazzling props, colourful costumes, mesmerizing music, and the unbelievable acrobatics of top-notch performers.
The story of the Nian carries a profound double which means; in Chinese language, “Nian” can be the phrase for “12 months” or “age.” Thus, the legend just isn’t merely a couple of legendary beast, however an allegory for the common human worry of ageing and loneliness. The manufacturing explores how these fears are overcome not in isolation, however by means of neighborhood, shared pleasure, and the colourful celebration of life.
“The manufacturing serves as an insightful exploration of the historic roots of Chinese language Lunar New 12 months customs,” mentioned the corporate in an announcement. “It underscores the importance of coming collectively to face challenges—whether or not they be monsters or the passage of time itself—and celebrates the spirit of neighborhood.”
In historic occasions, earlier than the Lunar New 12 months celebration existed, villagers lived in worry of the Nian monster. Crimson Firecracker narrates how their prayers had been answered and the way they used the colour crimson and loud noises to thrust back the beast. As we speak, these traditions proceed as folks greet one another with “Gung Xi, Gung Xi” (Congratulations) and have fun the passing of the outdated 12 months.
Audiences will likely be transported to a faraway village in historic China by means of a collection of dynamic dances, together with the Coinstick Dance, Lengthy Spear Dance, Ribbon Dance, and the Competition dance, the place colourful ribbons symbolize prosperity. The present highlights the intrinsic values of braveness, ingenuity, and concord, making it an ideal instructional and entertaining expertise for kids and adults alike.
The 2026 Crimson Firecracker Tour will have fun the Lunar New 12 months season with vibrant performances at choose venues throughout america. The tour kicks off on January 18, 2026, at 4:00 PM on the Jersey Metropolis Theater Middle at White Eagle Corridor. It continues February 4–5, 2026, on the Jay and Linda Grunin Middle for the Arts at Ocean County School in Toms River, NJ. Subsequent, the manufacturing visits Zoellner Arts Middle at Lehigh College in Bethlehem, PA, with two performances on February 25, 2026, at 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM. The tour concludes on March 31, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Arizona State College’s Gammage in Tempe, Arizona.
For extra data and tickets, go to www.nainichen.org.
