To his students, Zhang Wei is more than just a teacher—he is a source of inspiration and guidance. With his warm smile, youthful energy, and an unwavering passion for dance education, Zhang has transformed the way students perceive movement and self-expression. As a recipient of Tsinghua University Teaching Excellence Award for Young Teachers, he has dedicated the past 12 years of his life nurturing creativity and confidence in his students, helping them discover their true selves through the transformative power of dance.
A "Magical" Dance Course
In 2013, Zhang Wei pioneered the "University General Education Dance" curriculum at Tsinghua University’s Center for Arts Education. Among his many courses, "Aesthetic Appreciation and Creative Practice of Dance" has earned the affectionate nickname "the magical class" from students. The reason for this nickname is that the class doesn't teach any traditional dance moves. Instead, it encourages students to free their natural instincts and express themselves through movement.
At first, many students felt hesitant. Some would say, "I can't even dance, how can I choreograph? I feel self-conscious and lack confidence." Zhang, however, helped them reshape their understanding of dance. "Dance is the physical expression of consciousness," he told them. "The goal of this course is to awaken the innate ability to move freely, to be a lively and expressive version of yourself."
The first lesson—"Dialogue through the Body"—sets the tone for the entire course. Zhang encourages students to channel their emotions and thoughts into choreography, comparing the process to projecting one's inner world through movement. Consequently, the class becomes a space for collaboration and bold innovation, where students explore creative adventures together.
By the end of the semester, the final student projects are filled with surprises. Students report feeling a deep sense of self-recognition, often beyond what words can express, and they are unanimous in rating the course highly for its therapeutic impact.
Beyond personal growth, Zhang’s students integrate elements from their academic disciplines into their dance creations, achieving an effect greater than the sum of its parts. A notable example is the original dance piece Life, presented at the 2016 National Dance Aesthetic Education Seminar. Inspired by molecular motion and the DNA double helix, the piece used dance to embody the profound vitality of life itself. "Dance is not just about movements—it is a language that speaks to the soul," one student said.
Engaging a Large Lecture Hall
In addition to his creative courses, Zhang Wei also teaches theory in "Dance Culture and Aesthetics”, where he strives to keep students engaged. "It’s about finding a ‘classroom rhythm,’" he says. "Like a screenwriter, I restructure the material; like a conductor, I guide the students through the course; like a director, I design an experience that keeps them captivated. There has to be a sense of dynamic pressure that keeps students on their toes."
Zhang enjoys engaging with students, walking among them, asking them questions, and inviting them on stage. He attributes his ability to structure effective lessons to his experience in teaching competitions, particularly the rigorous coaching he received before the Young Teachers’ Teaching Contest. "They trained me to constantly question: What’s the core theme? What are the challenges and key points? What will students take away from each class?"
Leading a Dance Ensemble
As the artistic director of Tsinghua University’s Student Dance Troupe, Zhang Wei trains students in both technique and performance. Each semester, the troupe holds a salon or a dedicated showpiece, using live performance as a final assessment. "The spiritual and emotional wealth that dance brings can benefit a person for a lifetime," Zhang shares. "I love seeing the spark in students’ eyes when they dance—that’s the sign of a truly vibrant soul."
Zhang also places a strong emphasis on original choreography, believing it to be a measure of a troupe’s creative strength.
His award-winning The Blossoming Soul of Malan tells the story of Chinese scientists working on the nation’s "Two Bombs, One Satellite" project. Through intricate choreography, Zhang and his students depict the resilience and dedication of these pioneers, capturing both their professional triumphs and personal sacrifices. One of the most poignant moments in the performance features an off-stage voice calling, "Jiaxian, where are you? I know you must be where the motherland needs you most." These words, though never spoken in real life, encapsulate the unspoken love and unwavering support of physicist Deng Jiaxian’s wife. Students performing this piece often find themselves moved to tears.
Another award-winning work of Zhang’s, The Literary Seasons celebrates the beauty of campus life, but his commitment to large-scale productions extends beyond university performances. In 2019, Zhang served as the chief artistic director for Tsinghua University’s "Great Rejuvenation" formation at the 70th National Day parade in Tiananmen Square. He led 3,514 students and faculty members in a meticulously choreographed presentation that combined precision with artistic expression. "The biggest challenge was achieving breakthroughs within the limits of mass performance," he recalls.
In September 2024, Tsinghua University’s original drama Malan Blossoms celebrated its 100th performance at the National Centre for the Performing Arts, featuring choreography by Zhang. "Dance in theater must enhance the overall narrative and serve the bigger picture," he explains of his creative approach.
A Teacher Who Sparks Transformation
Zhang Wei’s impact extends beyond the stage and the classroom. His students express immense gratitude for his mentorship. "Professor Zhang is incredibly kind—one of my favorite teachers in the arts," says Hong Junxian, who progressed from simple movement games to advanced choreography under Zhang’s guidance. Another student, Chen Zhijia, shares, "Beyond dance class, I now have a sense of rhythm and movement in everyday life."
Wenwen, a member of the dance troupe, describes her journey as "transformative." "I used to hide in the shadows," she recalls. "But through rehearsals and performances, I learned to own the stage."
Dance as a Path to Self-Discovery
To Zhang Wei, dance education is more than teaching movements—it is about igniting passion and fostering self-discovery. "Aesthetic education is about sparking a flame," he says. "As educators, our mission is to ignite curiosity, awaken vitality, and help students find joy in exploration and creation. It’s about shaping individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also vibrant, compassionate, and deeply attuned to the beauty of life."
Through his innovative courses, inspiring leadership, and unwavering dedication, Zhang Wei continues to transform students’ lives—one dance at a time.
Editor: Li Han
