Chinese ballet 'Red Detachment of Women' still popular

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The National Ballet of China's "The Red Detachment of Women" is returning to Beijing's Tianqiao Theater.

It has been staged many times in China and around the world since it debuted at the same venue nearly six decades ago.

It’s part of the ongoing China International Ballet Season, celebrating the versatility of art styles.

The show is set in the 1930s, and follows the story of Qionghua, the daughter of a peasant, who escapes from an evil landlord and joins a revolutionary army.

Photo courtesy Tianqiao Theater

Since its debut, the ballet has been acclaimed for its moving and tragic plot, elaborate stage design and graceful choreography.

An audience member said, "I think every Chinese person has this kind of "red" spirit inside. For our generation, who grow up watching it, it really reminds us of our youth."

Another said, ”I came from Japan especially to watch the show. It’s a repertoire that has a strong presence of Chinese elements. I’m impressed."

Director of the National Ballet of China, Feng Ying, believes the show's popularity comes from its raw energy, as well as the historical elements within the plot.

"This play has been really popular since it was first staged. I think the main reason is that it uses a western art form - ballet - to tell a Chinese historical story. I think the combination of these elements gives the show its energy, and it will be popular in the future as well," Feng said.

For the company, performing the first full-length Chinese ballet was also a milestone in their 57-year history.

Photo courtesy Tianqiao Theater

Feng added, "Ballet art was born in the West. But the development of Chinese ballet has begun to impress the rest of the world, more than 60 years after it was introduced in China. It's because of efforts from people working in the industry, with original Chinese ballets like the “The Red Detachment of Women”. They all help manifest the status quo of Chinese ballet."

The performance is part of the ongoing 2017 China International Ballet Season, featuring stars from several global companies.

It runs until 14th January next year.