2014 National Art Troupes Performing Season begins

A dance drama about the great Chinese philosopher Confucius at the Poly Theater marked the beginning of the 2014 National Art Troupes Performing Season on Thursday.

Set to run until October 8, a total of 10 national-level art troupes including the China National Peking Opera Company, the National Theatre Company of China, and The National Ballet of China will perform dozens of performances on stage.

This is the fourth year that the Ministry of Culture has held the event, which aims to boost the development of original programs created by China's national-level art troupes. Art programs, promotional events and seminars will also be held during the season.

Confucius, created and performed by the China National Opera & Dance Drama Theater (CNO&DDT) stages the entire life and dramatic experiences of Confucius through dance. The drama was choreographed and directed by Kong Dexin, a 77th generation descendant of the philosopher himself.