From a poor rural family in communist China to the world stage, Li Cunxin has lived an extraordinary life shaped by talent, determination and opportunity.
Chosen at 11 to train at the Beijing Dance Academy, Li became a principal dancer with Houston Ballet and The Australian Ballet before serving as Artistic Director of Queensland Ballet. His bestselling memoir, Mao’s Last Dancer, became an international phenomenon, inspiring readers and audiences across the world.
In his highly anticipated follow-up, The Lucky Son, Li shares the life that followed – his career in Australia, family, ambition, legacy and belonging – and reflects on the courage it takes to dream beyond what seems possible.
Join Li for a fascinating conversation with Michaela Kalowski about his remarkable journey and the people and experiences that have shaped his life.