Folk dancers sizzle Xinjiang

The First China Xinjiang International Folk Dance Festival raised its curtain Sunday evening. The opening ceremony in itself foretold all the color and exuberance promised for the days ahead.

An epic stage spectacular launched the festival on a high note. Comprised of five chapters, the show brought dancers from diverse ethnic groups, introducing the best of their traditions.

Native Uygur artists proved the most brilliant of performers.

The pageant has attracted more than two thousand terpsichoreans. More than two hundred come from abroad.

Organizers say the festival aims to connect Chinese folk dance with other dance styles around the world.