The National Ballet of China's original production, The Crane Calling, returned to the stage on Sept 24 at Beijing's Tianqiao Theater, marking the 10th anniversary of its premiere with a newly updated version. This work revisits the inspiring story of Xu Xiujuan (1964-87), a young woman who gave her life while trying to save cranes in a rainstorm.

Through ballet, the performance paints an anthem to ideals, dedication, life, and the harmony between humans and nature.

Feng Ying, the director of the ballet piece, says: "On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the premiere, we approach this work with high reverence for life and nature, and with a heartfelt remembrance of Xu Xiujuan, the 'crane-protecting hero' who sacrificed her life at the age of 23. This piece is presented in a fresh new form. We have constantly modified and refined it over the past 10 years, and now, with the original creative team and a new generation of artists, we bring this work to a new height."