China Arts and Entertainment Group (CAEG) returns to the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center this winter with Confucius, a new dance drama performed by the China National Opera and Dance Drama Theater. The large-scale production about the life of Chinese philosopher Confucius will feature a cast of 55 performers.

The show, which includes traditional Chinese music, contemporary choreography, and opulent costumes, will make its American debut January 5-8, 2016, at The David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, followed by a January 13-15 engagement at The Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C. The production is directed and choreographed by Kong Dexin, a 77th-generation direct descendent of Confucius.

Confucius had its world premiere in 2013 at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing, China, and has since played throughout Asia, Europe, and Australia. Reflecting one of the most significant periods in China’s history, it tells the story of Confucius’ quest to instill codes of ethics, honor, and benevolence throughout the empire.

Confucius is written by Liu Chun, with music direction by Zhang Qu, scenic and lighting design by Ren Dongsheng, costume design by Yang Donglin, and makeup design by Jia Lei.

Tickets to the New York city staging can be purchased online at DavidHKochTheater.com, and for the D.C. engagement at Kennedy-Center.org/.