Abstract:
This master’s research explored current meanings of Guang Chang Wu(GCW)in Auckland. The research question guiding this inquiry was: What are Chinese women’s meanings of GCW in Auckland? This study was motivated by my curiosity about how cultural meanings and values of GCW change when crossing borders and what significance they hold in new contexts. This research may play an essential role in developing theory and practice of GCW and may reinforce its role and place in Auckland, New Zealand. Furthermore, this research may also contribute to helping people from a different understanding of community dance to extend their view. This qualitative research project utilised constructivist paradigms and Homi Bhabha’s theory of third space (1994). Data was collected by using semi-structured interviews with four Chinese women who participated in GCW in Auckland. The data was presented through four narratives. Through a constant thematic analysis, this study found that GCW is a form of community dance, GCW supports the development of personal identity and self-respect, it enables the development for social relationship, it builds connections with China, it supports the improvement of quality of life, and lastly, GCW may foster dance and beauty in Auckland.