Ma Cong —
Ma Cong has been widely recognized by dance world as a passionate, bright, inspired rising star choreographer. Critics have described his choreography as powerful and passionate.
Ma serves as Resident Choreographer of Tulsa Ballet while continuing to create and stage his existing works for companies internationally. Having started his dance career at the Beijing Dance Academy, where he trained in the art of Chinese Classical dance, Ma soon discovered his love for ballet and went on to graduate with honors. Ma danced with The National Ballet of China from 1995 until 1999 prior to joining Tulsa Ballet. During his 12 years’ tenure Tulsa Ballet, he quickly rose to the rank of Principal Dancer, performing in this capacity works by Nacho Duato, Jiri Kylian, William Forsythe, George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, Ben Stevenson and many others, in addition to the 19th century classics. Ma was one of the most celebrated and loved Artists in the history of the company.
As a choreographer, Ma launched his career with Tulsa Ballet creating Folia in 2004 and he has created many original works for Houston Ballet, Joffrey Ballet Chicago, BalletMet, Smuin Ballet, Richmond Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, Smuin Ballet, Singapore Dance Theatre, Queensland Ballet Australia, National Ballet of China and many others Worldwide.
Among his many personal and professional achievements, in 2006 Ma was named one of the “25 to watch” by Dance Magazine for both his dancing and choreography as well as The Choo-San Goh award in 2007. His work “Melodia” was presented in Grand Gala at Pesaro International Choreographic Festival and Maimi International Ballet Competition Gala. In 2008, Ma was the winner of the 21st Century Choreographic competition and also received the “Audience Favorite” and received the “Editor’s Choice Award” from Pointe Magazine. In 2010, he choreographed an original piece entitled “Calling” for Houston Ballet II and was described by Houston’s En Pointe as having “swiftly risen to become one of America’s most exciting choreographers.” In March 2010, ABT principal dancer Michele Wiles performed his work “In the moment” at YAGP grand Gala, City Center New York City. 2013, Ma was named one of Joffrey Ballet’s Choreographers of Color Award winners.
Most recently, Ma Cong created his first original full-length ballet – “The Crane Whisperer” for The National Ballet of China in 2015, he also created his brand new “Four Seasons” for the company to premiere at The 2nd China International Ballet Season. Ma Cong continues to be in demand worldwide for his unique talent and creations.