The program founded by Yang Meiqi has produced some of China's best dancers and choreographers. Photo provided to China Daily

The seed of modern dance was first planted on the Chinese mainland almost 30 years ago.

In 1986, Yang Meiqi, principal of the Guangdong Dance and Drama College, went to the United States to study, with the help of the Asian Art Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reviving and fostering Asian heritage.

After watching various performances and dance festivals, Yang came up with the idea of importing modern dance education to China. In 1987, she invited teachers from the US to Guangzhou in Guangdong province to help train Chinese dancers.

She soon realized that ongoing efforts were needed to "create a better environment for the seed of modern dance to grow in China". The art form was completely new to both dancers and audiences. No universities or college enrolled modern dance students.

Yang worked with the Beijing Dance Academy to develop a four-year program. In 2000, a group of 28 students were enrolled to study for a bachelor's degree. It was to be the only class to complete the program.