The Second Shanghai International Ballet Festival curtain rose last night in the Shanghai Grand Theater.

Gong Xueping, deputy secretary of the city committee attended the opening performance of the full-length British version of "Swan Lake", staged by the Shanghai Ballet Troupe.

Zhou Muyao, vice mayor of Shanghai, welcomed the visiting ballet dancers and competitors to the opening ceremony. In his speech, He compared Shanghai to the cradle of ballet in China, and said the festival will foster the cultural development of Shanghai.

Shanghai International Ballet Festival is the only world level ballet festival in China. This year's contest sees more talented dancers and famous judges. Among the more than 20 overseas competitors, most are members of state ballet troupes of their countries. China, as the host nation, has more than 70 dancers taking part in the competition.

The Festival will run through the week, and close on August 19, at Shanghai Grand Theatre. The top winner will be awarded a US$12,000 prize.

(Eastday.com.cn 08/13/2001)