The 5th Minorities Art Festival of China kicks off today in Beijing. On Monday, the rehearsal of the opening ceremony was held at the Great Hall of the People.

5th Minorities Art Festival of China opens

These actors are bringing to the stage special types of performances that are unique to their ethnic groups.

The playbill of the opening ceremony includes dance performances, singing, acrobatics and other forms of ethnic-centered art.

The songs and dances tell stories of the local life of different minority groups. Some are historical, while others are about how advances in modern society have improved their life quality.

"Singers from five Chinese autonomous regions will jointly sing the song 'Building our Chinese dreams together', which is also the theme of the festival. And the dancers will wear the traditional costumes of the different ethnic groups," said Ding Wei, chief director, 5th Minorities Art Festival of China.

Thirty five representatives from across the country will participate in the festival, which will run from August 16th, Tuesday, to September 14.

5th Minorities Art Festival of China opens