Mao’s Last Dancer

Mao’s Last Dancer

by

Li Cunxin

Liu Fengtian Character Analysis

Liu Fengtian is a music student recruited by the Beijing Dance Academy; he plays violin. He strikes up a lifelong friendship with Li Cunxin and the Bandit. When Cunxin returns to China many years after his defection, Fengtian is one of the friends who hosts him and Mary in Beijing. When Fengtian retires from his artistic career, he becomes a businessman.
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Liu Fengtian Character Timeline in Mao’s Last Dancer

The timeline below shows where the character Liu Fengtian appears in Mao’s Last Dancer. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Chapter 13: Teacher Xiao’s Words
Opportunity, Hard Work, and Success Theme Icon
Freedom vs. Repression  Theme Icon
...the year, the Beijing Dance Academy recruits a few musicians, including a violinist named Liu Fengtian. Cunxin quickly befriends him. Under Teacher Xiao’s gentle instructions, Cunxin makes noticeable progress in ballet... (full context)
Chapter 17: On the Way to the West
Love and Family Theme Icon
The Power of Stories Theme Icon
...stories, he still feels somewhat apprehensive. On the day of his departure, the Bandit, Liu Fengtian, and a few other friends treat him and Zhang Weiqiang to a lavish final meal.... (full context)
Chapter 28: Going Home
Love and Family Theme Icon
...of 1988, they board a plane bound for Beijing. When they arrive, the Bandit and Fengtian are waiting in the baggage claim. Cunxin initially sticks out his hand for a handshake,... (full context)
Chapter 30: Another Wedding: Qingdao, 1988
Opportunity, Hard Work, and Success Theme Icon
Love and Family Theme Icon
Freedom vs. Repression  Theme Icon
...and the rest of the family in the village. Jing Tring, the Bandit, Teacher Xiao, Fengtian, and Chong Xiongjun see them off at the Beijing airport. As the plane takes off,... (full context)
Postscript
Love and Family Theme Icon
Freedom vs. Repression  Theme Icon
...but remains involved in the ballet world, especially in judging international competitions. The Bandit and Fengtian have both left their artistic careers to become businessmen. Cunxin’s brothers’ living standards continue to... (full context)