Leading a graceful revival

"There were dance moves and instruments there which I had never seen before," he says.

Inspired by that journey, Rejep choreographed a song and dance drama, The Spring of Muqam, which debuted at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing in 2013.

Now, living and working with the Xinjiang Singing and Dancing Troupe in Urumqi, Rejep has not slowed down.

His next project is writing a book about the history of Xinjiang's dances, using the experiences gained from his travels during the past 30 years.

"I don't just want to put the movements together. The dancers have to understand the stories behind the movements. This will help them express their emotions," he says.

"I am excited about this project because once it is completed it will mean a new beginning for Xinjiang's dances."