The Festival of Korean Art is in full swing in Russia. And after classical music concerts it's time to watch a traditional Korean ballet. The National Dance Company of Korea has presented its astonishing mix of traditional Asian dance and modern choreography.
It is the most prestigious ensemble in Korea and the pinnacle for all Korean dancers. However, only one out of a hundred will eventually reach the goal. Artistic director Bae Jeong-hye manages all the country's dance companies. Her aim is to prove that Asians are as capable of developing modern choreography as Europeans.“Our programme is based on the motifs of traditional culture, but we also try to implement some modern elements as well,” she says. In Moscow they present a performance called 'Korean fantasy' that’s made up of 12 parts. Rehearsals start early in the morning with meditation and relaxation and can last up to nine hours. In addition, male dancers have to practice martial arts as their dance contains a lot of elements of oriental combat sports. And each dancer is a good fighter. The Korean Art Festival is on in Moscow till September 1.