BOOST dance festival featured PhD Student and Graduate Fellow Zihao Yuan's newest solo work with other Seattle contemporary dance artists, March 27 - 29, 2026 @ eXit SPACE | NOD Theater. 

Produced by eXit SPACE | NOD Theater, the BOOST Dance Festival is an annual opportunity for Seattle contemporary dance artists, who are both emerging and veteran dance-makers, to present work alongside one another for an ever-broadening audience. BOOST is known for its party-like atmosphere where festival producers encourage dialogue amongst patrons between dance works as well as audible support during the show for the artists being presented. The atmosphere is uniquely curated to center the joy of live art, new dance, and community living at the heart of the experience.

About Zihao Yuan's newest solo work:
"The Hidden Q.U.U.E.R"
Choreographer: Zihao Yuan
Dancer: Zihao Yuan
Music: from the movie "Farewell My Concubine霸王别姬," including Yibeizi一辈子, Luomu落幕, Duanzhi断指.

This solo work "The Hidden Q.U.E.E.R." challenges traditional gender norms, expressions and perceptions in dance and reflects Yuan's ongoing journey as a “Kuer” (酷儿or queer) Chinese dance artist-scholar. For too long, (especially) binary gender norms have dominated the dance world, often suppressing non-normative expressions and identities. Through this work, Yuan aims to question and disrupt these conventions. Inspired by the legacy of Mei Lanfang, the iconic Chinese opera artist known for his cross-gender performances, The Hidden Q.U.E.E.R. explores the intersection of identity, tradition, and personal liberation. This piece is not only a reflection of Yuan's own experiences growing up and navigating gender, but also an invitation for others to embrace authenticity in both dance and life. Yuan hopes this work can offer light, empowerment, and representation to individuals and communities who have long felt unseen.