Lovingly known as the “mother of modern dance in China,” Yang Meiqi has won the 2010 Balasaraswati/Joy Ann Dewey Beinecke Endowed Chair for Distinguished Teaching at The American Dance Festival (ADF).

Her association with ADF dates back to 1986, when she participated in its International Choreographer’s Residency program, which proved to be a significant event in the history of modern dance in China. With ADF’s assistance, Yang founded Guangdong Dance Company and Academy, China’s first modern dance company and school. Her efforts paved the way for artists following in her footsteps, including the acclaimed choreographer Shen Wei, who founded his own troupe in 2000. “I am so pleased to see Yang Meiqi win this award,” says Shen. “When we look at the dance happening inside and outside of China, they are all her students. She has such a good eye for dancers and excellent work.” Shen will speak at the award ceremony on July 18 at Duke University.

Yang is the recipient of several honors: inclusion in the Roster of Chinese Dance History as one of the “Most Outstanding Chinese Dance Educators,” recognition for “Outstanding Contribution to the Art of Dance in China” from China’s Federation of Literature and a John D. Rockefeller III Award. For more: www.americandancefestival.org

—Nancy Wozny

Photo courtesy of Yang Meiqi