One of the most anticipated projects on the program of the China Shanghai International Arts Festival this year, the Dutch National Ballet (DNB) presented Ode to the Master: Hans Van Manen Portfolio at the Shanghai Grand Theatre on Nov 13 and 14.

Dutch National Ballet is one of the top dance institutions in the world with dancers from more than 25 countries. The company had previously performed Giselle and Don Quixote in China and this year chose to present the collection of master choreographer Van Manen, which "very much represents what our company is about, the signature of our company," said Ted Brandsen, artistic director of DNB.

The 87-year-old Van Manen is known for his success in combining classical ballet with modern dance. He created more than 120 ballets performed by more than 50 companies worldwide. Van Manen has been the resident choreographer with the Dutch National Ballet since 2005.

"For me, he represents the highest we can do in our art form, because he makes dance speak in a way that only dance can speak, not in words," Brandsen said about Van Manen.

Among the dancers touring Shanghai is Liu Qian, a Chinese dancer from Liaoning who has been with DNB for eight years. Brandsen praised her focus and artistry, as well as expressiveness of emotions.

"She is one of the most theatrical dancers that I know," he said. "Liu is our principle dancer and there are also two Chinese solo dancers. More and more dancers from China, both male and female, are emerging today."