Dancers Teresa Reichlen and Ask La Cour from the New York City Ballet perform After the Rain at the opening gala. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Another highlight from the ballet season includes Song of Everlasting Regret, a ballet adaptation of a ninth century narrative poem of the same name by Bai Juyi, presented by Shanghai Grand Theatre and Shanghai Ballet. Xin Lili, director of the Shanghai Ballet, said that they have always strived to "tell Chinese stories on the world stage" and engaged renowned artists, such as French choreographer Patrick de Bana, to infuse an international element to the troupe.

In addition to different shows, there will be exhibitions, lectures, interviews on the history of ballet and a photography contest during the performance season. To increase the popularity of the classic art, the sponsors will hold benefit performances for students on campus and implement a membership program to offer special prices to ballet lovers.