Li Cunxin's incredible journey to becoming Mao's Last Dancer (Part 1)

On this episode

About this episode

What happens when a young peasant boy is given the chance to dance his way onto the world stage? For Li Cunxin, it was all about making the most of his luck. In our in depth interview with the internationally acclaimed dancer and bestselling author of Mao’s Last Dancer and The Lucky Son, we explore his extraordinary journey from childhood in China to the Beijing Dance Academy and the Houston Ballet. Li reflects on the life-changing influence of Teacher Xiao and Ben Stevenson, the opportunities that shaped his future, and the dramatic standoff with the Chinese consulate that threatened to cost him both his career and his family. First, Read is hosted by Charle Malycon, and this episode's…