Overseas Chinese ballet dancers gather in city for 'About Glory'

Eleven overseas Chinese ballet dancers from the world's top dance companies are gathering in Shanghai this weekend for the "About Glory: Chinese Ballet Stars Gala," during which over 10 selected dance segments will be presented.

These dancers include six principal dancers of overseas troupes – Philadelphia Ballet principal dancer Liang Zecheng, Cincinnati Ballet principal dancer Liu Sirui, Boston Ballet principal dancer Shi Yue, Hamburg Ballet principal dancer Lin Xue, Semperoper Ballett Dresden principal dancer Xia Jun, and Dutch National Ballet principal dancer Zhang Yuanyuan.

More than half of the 11 dancers learned ballet in Shanghai at the beginning of their career.

"These performers have been showcasing the ability of Chinese dancers on international stage over the years," said producer Ao Dingwen, who is also the artistic director of the "About Glory".

"About Glory" first met Shanghai audiences last year, and is making a return to the Shanghai International Dance Center Theater on August 1 and 2.

This year's programs not only cover classic duets from renowned ballets such as "The Nutcracker," "The Sleeping Beauty," "Don Quixote," "Giselle," and "Coppélia," but also modern ballet pieces choreographed by John Neumeier, Christopher Wheeldon, and Kaloyan Boyadjiev.

"I noticed that a lot of young ballet learners watched our performances last year," said Ao. "Having received their positive feedback, we hope to make 'About Glory' a long-term project to keep inspiring the younger generation."

"These overseas dancers have excelled in international competitions and established their positions in overseas troupes with perseverance and resilience. I think many Chinese dancers have these qualities," she added.

Performance info

Dates: August 1-2, 7:30pm

Tickets: 180-1,280 yuan

Venue: Shanghai International Dance Center Theater 上海国际舞蹈中心

Address: 1650 Hongqiao Rd 虹桥路1650号