Dance school waltzes into platinum year

"When I think back on the most important moments in my life, one that stands out is performing at the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. I was dressed in the attire of the Dunhuang Flying Apsaras from Chinese classical dance, performing in the vast space of the Bird's Nest," says dancer Yin Shuo, who graduated from the Beijing Dance Academy in 2008 and joined the China Oriental Performing Arts Group.

"I was born into a family of dancers — both my parents dedicated their lives to China's arts and culture. Growing up surrounded by dance has always been a source of pride for me. The academy gave me the opportunity to learn solid techniques, as well as to perform on different stages," she says.

"I have been with the academy for over 20 years, though I am only 33 years old," says dancer Hu Yang, who graduated from the middle school affiliated to the Beijing Dance Academy and later graduated from the academy. Now, he is the principal dancer of the China National Opera and Dance Drama Theater. "I grew up here and the academy witnessed my artistic growth. It's like my family.

"I have danced at the academy's 50th birthday gala, 60th birthday gala and now at its 70th birthday gala, which is a great honor," he adds. "We owe our success to the academy that has supported us for so many years. This gala is our way of giving back and expressing our gratitude."