Ballet workshop injects fresh vitality

Every spring, the National Ballet of China holds a creative ballet workshop for young choreographers to try out new work.

This year, the 15th edition will be held from April 25 to 27 at the Tianqiao Theatre in Beijing under the theme of "building".

It will continue to be a public platform for both domestic and international choreographers to collaborate, present their work, and engage with audiences through artistic creativity, in an experience that proposes visions for the future of ballet.

Like erecting a building, the theme symbolizes the process of creating a piece, which requires planning, design, and creation at every step. Similarly, the creative workshop has evolved step by step over the past 15 years to become a solid support platform for young talent.

Nine new pieces by 11 young choreographers will be presented, and will feature dancers from the National Ballet of China directed by German choreographer Orkan Dann. In addition, second-year student Li Wanyu from the National Ballet of China will also put on a special show.

"From the first time I participated in the creative process feeling inexperienced, to now, where this platform has allowed me to continually grow, my work as a director has become more organized," says Zhang Zhenxin, a choreographer and dancer at the National Ballet of China, who is directing the workshop for the fourth time. "During this 15th edition, I hope to challenge myself even more, and also hope that through the workshop, we can all create lasting work that will continue to energize the National Ballet of China's creativity."