Illuminations

Cornell's Undergraduate Chinese Cultural Dance Troupe

about us

Illuminations is Cornell University’s co-ed undergraduate Chinese cultural dance troupe, founded in 2004. We share Chinese culture through contemporary interpretations of traditional dance, including folk, classical, and fusion styles. With over 75 original choreographies, we perform regularly on campus and in the Ithaca community, culminating in an annual spring showcase with the Amber Dance Troupe. Our members, from all backgrounds and experience levels, are dedicated to fostering interest in Chinese dance and cultural heritage. Beginners are always welcome! Join us at our rehearsals and follow us on Instagram @cornell_illuminations to see past performances and connect with our community!

what we do

Illuminations aspires to use our dances and our showcase as an opportunity to encourage interest in Chinese dance and Chinese culture. Despite being a very diverse genre of dance, Chinese dance is often overlooked in popular media in Western society. In order to reach a broad audience, we feature both traditional and modern styles of Chinese dance as well as fusion music in our choreography. The fusion of modern and traditional styles symbolizes the significance of history and tradition in our modern day society.We hope that through our performances, we will provide people with more exposure to Chinese dance, and further stimulate interest in Chinese culture.

Upcoming Events

Check out our events!

9.13

clubfest

3pm ● Arts Quad

Watch us perform at Clubfest!

9.14

dance fest

5-7pm ● WSH 4th Floor

Watch us perform at CDA’s Dance Fest!

9.14

Open g-body

3-4pm ● Goldwin Smith Hall G76

Come to our first GBody meeting to get more info on our club!

2025-2026 dances

Information about our dance lineup this year

Acro

Choreographer: Emily Wang

Time: TBA

Location: TBA

Flower

Choreographer: Gillian Fang 

Time: Saturdays, 2:30-4pm

Location: Noyes MPR

Lantern

Choreographers: Caitlin Rapalski, Mike Vu, Ryan Peng

Time: TBA

Location: TBA

Long Silk Fan

Choreographer: Emily Shen

Time: TBA

Location: TBA

Sword

Choreographer: Clarissa McGhee

Time: TBA

Location: TBA