The classic Chinese tragedy Butterfly Lovers can now be seen in ballet form. The work, presented by the Guangzhou Ballet Troupe, is part of the ongoing competition for China's top dance prize -- the Lotus Awards.

The well－known classic about two doomed lovers has been adapted into various art forms, and this time it has been turned into a ballet. Dating back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty some 1,700 years ago, the story is widely seen as the Chinese version of Romeo and Juliet.

In the space of half an hour, the Guangzhou Ballet Troupe tells the complex love story between Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai, successfully creating a tender and melancholy atmosphere for the audience. The beautiful music, graceful dancing and magnificent lighting brings new life to an ancient classic.
 
(CCTV.com March 10, 2004)