The story of Li Cunxin and China’s Cultural Revolution Mao’s Last Dancer The story of Li Cunxin and China’s Cultural Revolution

China’s Cultural Revolution (1966 - 1976) Violent period of China’s history Persecution of millions in effort to establish a communist regime Led by Mao Zedong, or “Chairman Mao” Mobilized young people - the Red Guard - who worshipped Mao without question https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqJ9IpWOYQA

Li Cunxin Famous Chinese ballet dancer Lived during Cultural Revolution Indoctrinated against the U.S. as a child Selected to visit U.S. as an exchange student Refused to return to China

Mao’s Last Dancer Mao’s Last Dancer was originally an autobiography written by Li Cunxin. Made into a movie by Australian film director, Bruce Beresford in 2009. Li eventually became an Australian citizen and is most recently became the Artistic Director of the Queensland Ballet.