It is said that before human beings had language they communicated through dance. As one of the world's oldest civilizations, China boasts a huge variety of dance styles. And this winter, Beijing is finally welcoming its first ever International Dance Festival. The carnival, which opens on Dec.12, will give China's top dance troupes the opportunity to show off their best moves and open the capital's stages to art troupes from dozens of countries.

The first Beijing International Dance Festival is the last of this year's three grand art events in the capital. Artists from all across North America and Europe will join top-ranking Chinese dance groups such as the Central Ballet and the Oriental Song and Dance Ensemble to warm up the capital this winter.

Ballet will play a prominent part in this year's festival. China's Central Ballet Ensemble, recognized for its perfect combination of oriental culture and western ballet skills, will stage their latest version of "Swan Lake" and other original works.

On Dec.12, the prestigious Oriental Song and Dance Ensemble, being famous for producing the country's top singers and dancers, will open the festival with a gala called "Romance and Talent." Beijing's dance lovers are now looking forward to two months of dance, human beings' most beautiful language.

(CCTV December 4, 2003)