Future ballet and choreography talents shine in Beijing

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Beijing saw a number of budding dancers and choreographers from around the world trying to get their big break under the watchful eyes of some of the best practitioners of their art at the 4th Beijing International Ballet and Choreography Competition, which ended over the weekend.

The competition aims to provide aspiring young dancers and choreographers with a platform to showcase their craft.

Contestants perform at the award and closing ceremony of the 4th Beijing International Ballet and Choreography Competition on Aug 11. /NCPA Photo

The event is also positioned as a major platform to enhance dance communication between China and the rest of the world, explains founder Zhao Ruheng, who is also the former director of the National Ballet of China.

"One of the highlights of the competition is the top-class international dancers and choreographers who are invited to be our judges," said Zhao. "They will share their professional experience. The judges are genuinely looking for the stars of the future, so what the contestants present has to be more than just techniques."

Zhao Ruheng, founder of the event speaks at closing ceremony of the 4th Beijing International Ballet and Choreography Competition on Aug 11. /NCPA Photo

There are two categories in the competition – classical ballet and choreography. Ballet is open to contestants aged 14 to 22, and choreography, is for those aged 18 to 40.

This year, Chinese dancers did well in classical ballet, taking the gold award for both junior and senior categories.

As for the choreography segment, the gold award and Grand Prix both were unawarded.

Contestants perform at the award and closing ceremony of the 4th Beijing International Ballet and Choreography Competition on Aug 11. /NCPA Photo

The event also features workshops and lectures with ballet masters and ballet-related movie screenings.