Cloud Gate Tickets

13 Tongues is a powerful contemporary dance work by Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan, inspired by memories of the old Bangka (Wanhua) district in Taipei. At the heart of the performance is the legendary street storyteller nicknamed “Thirteen Tongues” — a vivid symbol of a world where myths, everyday life, humor, fear, and imagination coexist.

Through dynamic choreography, ritualistic movement, and striking visual imagery, the dancers recreate the atmosphere of bustling streets, temples, and night markets, where the spiritual and the mundane merge seamlessly. Traditional Taiwanese folk songs, Taoist chants, and electronic soundscapes intertwine, shaping a vibrant sonic landscape.

13 Tongues is not a literal narrative, but a living collage of memories, characters, and emotions — a celebration of cultural identity, collective memory, and the timeless human need to tell stories through the body.

Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan is Asia’s first contemporary dance company and one of the most influential dance institutions on the global stage. Established in 1973 by legendary choreographer Lin Hwai-min, Cloud Gate has developed a distinctive artistic language that blends modern dance techniques with elements of traditional Chinese culture, including tai chi, qigong, martial arts, calligraphy, poetry, and Eastern philosophy.

The company’s name refers to an ancient Chinese dance mentioned in classical texts, symbolizing harmony between heaven and earth. Cloud Gate’s performances are characterized by fluid movement, sculptural imagery, minimalist aesthetics, and a profound sense of inner stillness. Their works often explore themes of nature, history, identity, and the human spirit.

Cloud Gate has toured extensively across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Australia, performing at leading festivals and prestigious venues such as the Lincoln Center, Sadler’s Wells, Théâtre de la Ville, and major international dance festivals. The company is widely acclaimed for redefining contemporary dance through a uniquely Asian perspective, earning numerous international awards and critical acclaim.