Source: CCTV.com

04-24-2007 10:25

The CCTV Dance Contest found some dazzling new stars on Saturday night. "Hand in Hand" performed by disabled dancers Ma Li and Zhai Xiaowei moved and inspired the audience in equal measure with the performer's sheer dedication and talent.

"Hand in Hand" was the first entry from some disabled dancers in the four occasions that the contest has been run. Both the dancers had lost limbs as a result of car accidents. Ma Li lost her right arm and Zhai Xiaowei his left leg.

Their dance is about how people overcome life's frustrations and enjoy the happiness of love.

Zhang Jigang, judge of the 4th CCTV Dance Competition, said, "I don't expect the dance to be so dazzling. It's not only about joining hands, but also care, support and help in the heart."

The pair present their interpretation in heart-rending body language. Behind their stunning performance lies deep commitment.

Dancer Zhai Xiaowei said, "After all, we're disabled people. But we dance with our heart and soul."

Dancer Ma Li said, "It's the power of love and the strength of joining hands, which keeps us persevering."

Zhao Limin, choreographer of "Hand in Hand", said, "The dance is full of artistic beauty, they made truly extraordinary efforts to achieve their goal."

A total of 120 dances were entered in the competition. The included entries from the categories of folk, ballet, contemporary, as well as, for the first time, street dance. The final will take place on April the 28th.