From July 20 to August 5, the 7th China Xinjiang International Dance Festival took center stage in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Urumqi buzzed with energy as the main venue, while Ili, Hotan, Aksu, Karamay, Hami and Alaer hosted sub-venue showcases. This year, 24 art troupes 6 spanning eight countries and 16 domestic teams 6 delivered 52 performances, weaving together dance dramas, operas, ballet and contemporary pieces.
Participating troupes hailed from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, the United States, Italy and Cambodia, reflecting the Silk Road’s spirit of cultural exchange. Alongside them, Chinese mainland teams brought modern interpretations of Uygur folk dance and classical ballet, creating a vibrant dialogue across traditions.
Key Highlights:
- 24 art troupes, including eight international teams
- 52 performances: dance drama, opera, ballet and modern dance
- Main venue in Urumqi; sub-venues in Ili, Hotan, Aksu, Karamay, Hami and Alaer
- Emphasis on cross-cultural collaboration and heritage celebration
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and travelers, the festival is more than a stage 6 it’s a journey into the heart of Silk Road heritage. With stunning visuals, innovative choreography and immersive performances, it offers a fresh perspective on how dance can bridge borders and spark new conversations.
As the festival closes, its echoes of rhythm and unity leave a lasting imprint, reminding us that art transcends boundaries and brings the world closer one step at a time.
Reference(s):
International dance festival in Xinjiang bridges cultural exchange
cgtn.com
