Fighting on their feet

Dancers and choreographers hone their skillsand seek discovery - as they compete in Beijing, Chen Jie reports.

Taking a deep breath, Romanian Ovidiu Chitanu stepped on stage, eager to perform the role of Albert in Act II of Giselle at the final round of the 3rd Beijing International Ballet and Choreography Competition.

One of the 27 finalists, the 25-year-old dancer impressed the jury with his powerful entrechat. A beautiful leap followed a turn in the air - but suddenly, he fell down, grimacing with pain.