Elizariev, who was named the People's Artist of the Republic of Belarus in 1979 and the People's Artist of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics in 1985, premiered Spartacus in 1980 at the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre.

Speaking about the work, Xu says: "Spartacus is known for its strong and energetic rhythms, and it displays the power of the company's male ballet dancers.

"When I watched it, I was also impressed by the stage design, which showcases the wildly explosive Colosseum battle scenes."

Speaking about the China shows, Elizariev says: "Spartacus is a gift to mark 70th birthday of the People's Republic of China. I've been to the country many times and it's a place with lots of talented dancers."

The Spartacus shows are also part of the ongoing 19th Meet in Beijing Arts Festival, the capital's largest annual festival of dance, music, drama and art, which kicked off on April 25 and runs throughout May 25.

The festival, which aims to promote cultural exchanges among countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, is bringing together nearly 600 artists from 35 performing arts groups from 25 countries and regions to Beijing.