Honoring a pioneer of Chinese dance

In the history of modern Chinese dance, few figures shine with the grace, dignity and enduring influence of Dai Ailian (1916-2006), also known as Ailien Tai, the Trinidad-born Chinese ballerina who devoted her life to the art form, and was dubbed the "mother of Chinese dance".

Dai was dedicated to the advancement of Chinese dance and cultural exchange.

As the first principal of the Beijing Dance School and the founding director of the National Ballet of China, this pioneer laid the cornerstone for the development of Chinese ballet and inspired generations of dancers nationwide.

In 2026, marking the 110th anniversary of Dai's birth, artists and audiences gathered in Beijing to honor her artistic legacy with a special commemorative performance at the Tianqiao Theatre on May 23 and 24.