When Metal Catches the Beat: Unitree G1 Humanoids Join Wang Leehom's Chengdu Concert

On December 19, 2025, a scene unfolded at Wang Leehom’s concert in Chengdu that previously seemed confined to science fiction concept videos. Performing at the Dong’an Lake Sports Park before an audience of approximately 18,000 spectators, the artist seamlessly integrated the Unitree G1 humanoid robots into the live production. These machines were not mere set dressing; they acted as fully functional stage dancers.

This integration was far from a superficial gimmick. It represented a carefully orchestrated concept where human artistry meets technological prowess. As the artist sang, the technology moved alongside him, amplifying the contemporary feel of the show. Six bionic humanoids took to the stage, executing background choreography in perfect synchronicity with the human performers. This created a compelling dialogue between the living and the mechanical forms.

A moment that instantly went viral across the internet showcased the robots’ advanced capabilities: a complex acrobatic maneuver described as a front flip, or a Webster flip. During the performance of the track “Open Fire,” the robots demonstrated remarkable precision and coordination—the kind of plastic discipline usually associated only with highly trained dance troupes.

It is crucial to note that such stage integration does not happen spontaneously. According to released information, the engineers at Unitree spent over three months meticulously preparing this routine. They focused intensely on repeatability and synchronization, understanding that any onstage error would be as glaringly obvious as a missed musical note.

The Unitree G1 models utilized in the performance are described as bipedal humanoids engineered for real-time agility and coordination. Their technical specifications highlight several key features:

• 23 degrees of freedom, enabling more lifelike kinematic movements.
• Spatial perception sensors, specifically including a 3D lidar and a depth camera.
• Onboard computation and sophisticated motion control algorithms.

Furthermore, the economic aspect of these robots is noteworthy. With a base price around $13,500, the G1 is positioned as a relatively accessible entry point into the world of humanoid robotics when compared to some of the higher-end market solutions currently available.

The technology sector reacted swiftly to the performance. Video clips circulated widely on social media, sparking discussions that extended far beyond the artist’s dedicated fanbase. The central question became how robots are beginning to redefine the language of the entertainment industry. The viral spread received an extra boost when Elon Musk publicly shared footage of the performance with a brief, appreciative comment, noting that he was impressed.

Unitree has previously showcased the skills of its humanoid line on other models, including executing flips and running routines. However, the G1 is being presented as a more commercially focused and mass-market platform. It is designed to transition smoothly into stage appearances, demonstrations, and various service scenarios. In the competitive Chinese robotics market, where numerous companies are vying for dominance, such high-profile public displays serve as a powerful showcase for the future service economy.

The Final Note on GAYA ONE

What makes this event truly significant is not the notion of robots replacing humans, but rather the concept of robots performing alongside people—serving as a novel instrument on stage. As the stage lit up, steel momentarily adopted the fluidity of dance under the spotlights. It was a snapshot of the future captured in real-time: a singer performing, a city breathing, and machines learning to be part of the celebration without disrupting its essence.