An artist said, "I think this is a big day to celebrate. I do admire the professionalism the whole gala reflected."

"I'm so into the Flamenco performed by Spanish dancers. They seemed so relaxed and enjoy themselves on stage," said an artist.

Dancers perform at the opening ceremony of the second China Xinjiang International Folk Dance Festival in Urumqi of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region on July 20, 2011. The festival will continue until August 5. [Photo/Xinhua]

The night filled with agile movement featured the folk dance epic "Manas," which is recognized as a key item under the country's protection as an intangible cultural heritage.

The 2nd Xinjiang International Folk Dance Festival will wrap up on August 5th, with the classic "The Red Detachment of Women" by the National Ballet of China as the festival closer.

Dancers perform at the opening ceremony of the second China Xinjiang International Folk Dance Festival in Urumqi of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region on July 20, 2011. The festival will continue until August 5. [Photo/Xinhua]