Li Cunxin author page

Li Cunxin biography

Li Cunxin is a Chinese-Australian author and former ballet dancer. He is best known for his memoir, Mao’s Last Dancer, which was first published in 2003 by Penguin Australia. The book recounts his childhood in rural China, his selection and training at the Beijing Dance Academy, and his subsequent career as a dancer in the West. Li’s story details his experiences during the Cultural Revolution and his eventual defection to the United States, where he danced with the Houston Ballet. Later, he moved to Australia and continued his career with the Australian Ballet.

Mao’s Last Dancer has been published in a young readers’ edition, making Li’s story accessible to children and young adults. The memoir has been recognised for its educational value and is used in schools to explore themes of resilience, cultural change, and personal determination. In addition to his writing, Li Cunxin has served as the Artistic Director of Queensland Ballet.

Li Cunxin’s memoir, Mao’s Last Dancer, was first published in 2003.