A new generation's take on an old classic

Red Detachment still enthralls audiences and wins fans 60 years after it was first performed, Chen Nan reports.

The air vibrates with the rhythmic sound of ballet shoes on the floor, as the young dancers focus intently on their breathing and movements. Here, in the rehearsal room at the National Ballet of China, they are busy with intense preparations for The Red Detachment of Women, which celebrates the 60th anniversary of its premiere with 10 performances that end on Thursday.

Since its premiere on Sept 26,1964, China's first ballet has transcended the realm of dance to become a cultural icon, and a powerful symbol of the country's artistic evolution. Over the past 60 years, the ballet has not only told its poignant story, but also inspired audiences with its representations of perseverance and national pride.

It is known in the US as the ballet performed for former president Richard Nixon during his visit to China in 1972.

This anniversary season, the production is touring nationwide, with 60 shows planned by the end of this year. In Beijing, the National Ballet of China put on a star-studded show with the likes of principal dancers Qiu Yunting and Ma Xiaodong and for the first time, students from the company's ballet school will also participate as a showcase of the troupe's collective strength and new generation of talent.

Additionally, esteemed ballet dancers, who have played leading roles in the classic production, such as Wang Caijun, Zhang Jian, and Wang Qimin, will grace the stage, adding depth and continuity to the celebrated work.