Dancing to a London beat

After Ma's videos circulated widely online, he received lots of messages from people from around the world. Many of those watching Ma's videos were impressed by his ability to dance his moves perfectly, even while in the air. As Chinese classical dance involves movements based on martial arts, Ma has combined his dance moves with dazzling action.

"Now, making and sharing short videos have become a part of my life, and, most importantly, a great way to introduce Chinese classical dance to more audiences, especially those overseas viewers," says Ma.

"It's always been my goal to offer audiences worldwide a glimpse of Chinese classical dance since many people have no idea about the dance form. I have gained a deeper understanding of Chinese classical dance since I started to teach and live in London."

Lyu Yisheng, a renowned Chinese dancer and former president of the Beijing Dance Academy, writes in an article on the aesthetics of Chinese classical dance: "The dance form is a result of Chinese dancers' creation based on traditional Chinese culture, like old paintings, sculptures and calligraphy. It has been developed since the People's Republic of China was founded in 1949."

When the dance academy was founded in 1954, Chinese classical dance had become a key subject for experts and Chinese dancers to practice and research.

According to Ma, the dance focuses on portraying different characters through subtle movements, such as hand gestures and eye contact.