Ekaterina, was a chief ballet dancer at Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre in Uzbekistan, and has been performing and teaching ballet for nearly 20 years. The indissoluble bound between China and her originated from an occasional performance. Under the recommendation of a friend, she introduced Russian ballet to Changsha. Now, she works as the artistic director in Hunan Alina Ballet. Changsha City has never disappointed her as the artistic atmosphere and passion have fulfilled her expectation and pursuit. She feels thankful to the city, and wishes to stay a longer time to influence more people with the infinite charm of ballet.
Why come to Changsha?
"I performed in China many years ago, and the country left a good impression on me. I felt that it was really a great country. By chance, I got acquainted with Long Teng, Chairman of Ballet Professional Committee of Changsha Dancers Association. With her introduction and help, I found an ideal job in Changsha."
How is life in Changsha?
"I am passionate about art, dance and music are indispensable in my life like air. The passion, pursuit and creation of art unveil the artistic atmosphere in Changsha, which enable me to see this city in a new light. More importantly, I am very happy and passionate about my work here. I spend most of time in dance room everyday and staying with kids is the happiest moments in my life. The art of ballet is beautiful but brutal, and it takes hard practice and polishing to achieve improvement, and I am willing to accompany with them on the road of pursuing art. Many kids here are very talented, l feel so proud that they can step on bigger stages and make great efforts for awards. It is my greatest harvest in Changsha. Meanwhile, I work as a volunteer in Changsha Dancers Association, and make ballet accessible to the general public. During my volunteer service, the enthusiasm and love shown by everyone make it my most unforgettable and special experience. Although I have not been completely adapt to the spicy food here, the hot personality of the local people is the reason that I fall in love with the life here."
What are the favorite places in Changsha?
“I love strolling, a quiet place will be great for my deep thinking. Therefore, I like the park near my home very much, which is called Wangcheng Gushan Sports Park. With lush trees, fresh air, small bridges and secluded paths, it is the perfect place to take a walk, enjoy the tranquility and appreciate nature. Of course, the hustle and bustle of the city is also my preference. The vitality of Huangxing Pedestrian Road is impressive, it is always filled with people, delicacies and neon lights. I have been walking on the road for many times, but every visit will still surprise me with new things. I should mention Grand Theater of Meixi Lake International Culture and Art Center, which is really the love of artists. I have taken many wonderful pictures around it and shared with my family and friends the charm of the art architecture. Changsha is surprising all the time, and I hope that I can stay in the city, which will be a very cherishable experience in my life.”
策划 | 姜国 郑文新
统筹 | 岳珊 刘佳
文字 | 田也 岳珊
摄影 | 张寅宇
美编 | 曾璐