Source: CCTV.com

01-07-2009 09:16

A new performance of "The Red Detachment of Women" has made its debut at the Paris Opera House. It's one of the repertoire performances of China's Central Ballet, as well as a familiar ballet in the West. The occasion also marks the first time the legendary opera house is hosting a performance based on the Chinese revolution.

Still of Chinese ballet "The Red Detachment of Women"

Based on the novel of the same title, the ballet depicts the liberation of a peasant girl in Hainan Island. And later, her rise in the Chinese Communist Party. The ballet version blends western dancing art with traditional Chinese dancing, shedding new light on distinctive Chinese ballet.

The patriotic ballet has been warmly welcomed at home and abroad since its premiere in 1964. It was also performed for former US President Richard Nixon during his visit to China in 1972.

Still of Chinese ballet "The Red Detachment of Women"

In 1992, the Central Ballet revised the production, receiving warm approval from audiences and praise from experts. Up until now, five generations of artists in the group have performed in the work.