Meet in Beijing Arts Festival: 130 shows staged at month-long event

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02:09

The 18th "Meet in Beijing Arts Festival" has opened in the Chinese capital. Presented by China Arts and Entertainment Group and Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture, this year's event is looking to promote cultural exchanges between countries involved in China's Belt & Road initiative, whilst staying in tune with the country's national development strategy. Let's take a look.

Throughout the month of May, the "Meet in Beijing Arts Festival" will attract hundreds of creators and designers from all over the world.

One-hundred and thirty performances, three art exhibitions and other diverse activities will be held in theaters, galleries, communities and schools around the Chinese capital.

The Belt & Road theme is being represented through some classic shows, such as the Royal Ballet of Cambodia.

Known for its graceful hand gestures and stunning costumes, the royal ballet of Cambodia was established in the country's royal courts for entertainment, coronations, marriages and funerals.

Meanwhile, the Swingle Singers -- a group which uses their voices as instruments -- will also be present.

The versatile troupe -- which transcends traditionally accepted musical boundaries -- has won five US Grammy awards.

The dance drama "Confucius" -- presented by the China Opera and Dance Drama Theater -- will close the month-long event.

Confucius was staged at New York's Lincoln Center and the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington last year.

Reflecting one of the most significant periods in China's history, it tells the story of the famous Chinese philosopher's quest to instill codes of ethics, honor and benevolence throughout the empire.

Many say it has created an artistic image of Chinese culture overseas.

Inaugurated in 2000, the festival has developed into a grand international platform to share the essences of art and culture.