Minister of Culture Luo Shugang (left) gives a speech at the opening ceremony of the 5th China Xinjiang International Dance Festival on July 20, 2017 in Urumqi, Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

The 5th China Xinjiang International Dance Festival was held from July 20 to August 5, in Urumqi, Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.

The Chinese classical dance drama, The Orphan of Zhao, was the final presentation at the festival, which featured 21 art communities from 10 countries and regions that gave more than 60 performances.

Its theme was “Chinese Dream, Colorful Silk Road”, and Chinese Minister of Culture Luo Shugang pointed out at the opening ceremony that this dance festival was an important platform for cultural exchange along the Silk Road. Holding such a grand public art event not only spotlighted cultural features of the people of Xinjiang, but also promoted stability in the Xinjiang area, he added.

Apart from splendid dance performances, the festival also included online dance interaction, a Chinese opera week, an oil painting exhibition of young artists and the exhibition of cultural relics restoration.