Birch tree in the field

The Red Army Choir and Dance Ensemble treated Beijingers to a variety of Russian folk songs and dances in December. Russia's other symbolic folk ensemble "Beriozka" (the birch tree) will bring something different but equally impressive this month.

Founded by Nadezhda Nadezhdina 60 years ago, the State Academy Beriozka Dance Company is famous for the girls' round dance Beriozka which was created by Nadezhdina and has delighted audiences in more than 60 countries.

Girls in traditional Russian dresses dance to the music of the folk song, Vo Pole Beriozonka Stoyala ("there was a birch tree in the field"). So for a long time, the company has been considered a symbol of the beauty of Russian women.

Mira Koltsova, its director for more than 30 years, has not only preserved the dance styles initiated by Nadezhdina but further developed them.

The troupe was last year named a "traditional cultural heritage of Russia".

7:30 pm, Jan 29-Feb 1

Poly Theater, 14 Dongzhimen Nadajie

6504-6929 6504-6966 800-810-8798