Dance
Chinese Sword Dance (Beginners) Short Course - Summer Term 2026
Often seen in Chinese film and theatre, Chinese Sword Dance is a core discipline in traditional Chinese classical dance training. Evolved from a military training exercise into an elaborate acrobatic dance, this fun and dramatic activity combines martial arts and fencing with dance, drama and exercise to create a unique course and interesting discovery into Chinese performing arts.
Course Description
Welcome to our Chinese Sword Dance for Beginners course at the Confucius Institute! This gentle, engaging class introduces you to the elegance, rhythm, and cultural beauty of traditional Chinese sword dance—no prior dance or martial arts experience required.
We will start with basic postures, warm-ups, and simple sword-handling skills, focusing on smooth movements, basic footwork, and the graceful coordination between body and sword. You will learn a short, complete beginner-level sword dance routine that combines soft Chinese dance aesthetics with basic sword techniques.
Alongside movement practice, we will share simple stories and cultural meanings behind Chinese sword dance, helping you connect with Chinese traditional art in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Suitable for adults of all ages and fitness levels.
Learning Objectives
1. Master basic warm-up, standing postures, and safe sword-handling skills for beginner-level sword dance.
2. Learn fundamental footwork, arm gestures, and simple coordination patterns for Chinese sword dance.
3. Complete a short, performable beginner sword dance combination with correct rhythm and posture.
4. Understand basic cultural background and aesthetic features of Chinese sword dance.
5. Improve body flexibility, coordination, and confidence in expressing traditional Chinese dance movements.
We also offer an intermediate sword dance class on Sunday afternoons for more experienced sword dancers!
Discount
We offer Goldsmiths staff, students, alumni, local Lewisham residents, over 65s and those in receipt of income support a 15% discount. To receive the discount code, you need to provide proof to confucius@gold.ac.uk before we can send you the discount code.
Fridays - 17.30pm-19.00 pm
Location: RHB 253, Richard Hoggart Building, Goldsmiths
DISCLAIMER - If you are undertaking an in-person course please note that we may need to move the course online due to any unforeseen circumstances. Please note no refunds are issued for moving courses online.
