Chinese perspectives in a western classic

Yang says that the work is about the conflict between inevitable nature (spring) and human control (sacrifice), and the idea behind the new score was influenced by Tibetan and Chinese symbols of nature, the cycle of life and death, and the inevitability of rebirth.

Last year, a segment of the show was presented to the international dance community, drawing praise and earning it many invitations to the world's leading festivals.

The China Shanghai International Arts Festival (CSIAF) has agreed to commission the new production this year.

"Through Yang's work, the Festival, as a creative and professional platform for original works, expects to bring a unique Chinese version of a Western tale to the world stage," said Wang Juan, president of China Shanghai International Arts Festival Center.

Sadler's Wells Theatre in London, the Edinburgh International Festival, and the Melbourne Arts Festival have also booked the performance as joint producers.

The Edinburgh International Festival has announced its plan to bring the performance to the Festival Theatre from Aug 22 to 24 in 2019, with ticket sales starting next March.

"This is a perfect example of the strong cultural links that exist between Scotland and China, and it is sure to be one of the highlights of the festival," said Nicola Sturgeon, first minister of Scotland, during her visit to China in April this year.

Discussions on collaboration are also underway with festivals in the United States and Spain.

Despite her lack of professional training, Yang became one of the most prominent Chinese dancers to have graced the global dance community. She rose to fame in 1986 following her performance of her original dance piece Spirit of the Peacock. A frequent performer on international stages, Yang is known for her unique style that creates a dialogue between Western and Chinese cultures.