Urukerereza, the National Ballet of Rwanda (LIU JIAN)

Why the name "Urukerereza"?

Urukerereza in our local language Kinyarwanda means something [which is so] captive [that] makes somebody [running] late do things he or she is supposed to do.

How would you describe your dance style?

In the National Ballet, we try to keep our ballet traditional. We don't want to lose our culture, [because] many years ago, we had a stronger nation. Culture is an instrument for us to move ahead. [The] National Ballet wants to demonstrate the richest culture in our country, [and] it has [had] successes all over the world at international festivals and events in Europe and America.

Please explain the different types of dance included in your show.

The show starts with artists demonstrating to the audience that people in Rwanda are enjoying a peaceful and prosperous life. The various motions of auspicious animals, such as elephant, gazelle and cow that are thought capable of protecting peace and prosperity [in] the country [are imitated]. Then [a] mixed dance is performed by both male and female dancers demonstrating courtship, and the dancers call this "the dance of fiancés." After that, we have the warrior dance and it's performed by eight dancers showing warriors that return [triumphantly].

What role does drumming play in Rwandan culture?

[A] drum is an instrument of communication in our culture, and we play it to express many things. The royal drummers, 13 in number, are the traditional symbol of royal power. In the past, drums were used to both announce the presence of the King and communicate with his people and allies. During the colonial period, drums were also used [at] school openings and other special occasions.

What do you want to convey to Chinese audiences through your dances in "Rwanda, A Land of Peace and Prosperity"?

As it's written in the title, now we have peace and are working on the development of the country. When there is peace, you [gain] many things for your nation and people. At the Shanghai Expo we are also promoting our country, showing [the] peace, security and investment opportunities in Rwanda. [Since] the genocide, which happened 16 years ago, the government has been mobilizing its people to build a strong nation for a better future. Since 1994, the economy has been growing fast, between 6-11 percent each year. I think a nation's culture cannot exit without peace, so that's why we chose this theme – to show [the] Chinese we are a land of peace and prosperity.

China-Africa cooperation has been strengthening over the last decade and African music and dance is gaining popularity in China. What do you think is behind this development?

Though China is a country far from Africa, we have a common history. We had exchanges many years ago in the cultural sector. Culture is an instrument of communication for both of us.

What is your company planning for the future? 

For the future, we would like to set up a training center. [During] holidays, we [would] call on parents to bring their children to learn things from ballet. We will also tour inside and outside the country, and produce some CDs and DVDs to sell all over the world.

Are you expecting to perform at the Shanghai Expo?

Yes. It's also a good opportunity to show audiences Rwanda, to show our country through the culture. For someone who doesn't know Rwanda, he will know Rwanda at the Expo through our performances.