US to be guest of honor at 15th Meet in Beijing Arts Festival

Chinese and US dancers perform Swan Lake. [Photo/CRI]

Performers from more than 25 countries will take part in the Meet in Beijing Arts Festival between next Thursday and May 30.

With the United States named 'guest of honor' for the first time, more than 42 art troupes and 104 musical acts will perform during the event. Chinese audiences will get the chance to experience the charm and character of American art.

Tchaikovsky's classic ballet Swan Lake will be jointly performed by the American Ballet Theatre and the National Ballet of China at the opening ceremony.

Chinese dancers will work with US star Isabella Boylston to provide a visual feast for art-lovers.

Suolin Purse, a story of a charitable girl, will be featured at the closing ceremony. Zhang Huoding, who plays the central character, will later make her debut at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City, in September.

The Master Chorale of Washington, the William and Mary Wind Ensemble and the Georgia Boy Choir will also showcase their talents.

Meet in Beijing is an international event hosted by the Ministry of Culture, the State Administration of Press Publication, Radio, Film and Television and the Government of Beijing City.