Global Regional Jury Biography

Shen Sijia

Desire to cultivate the next generation of talent.

 

Sijia, a luminary in the arts and media sectors, embarked on her artistic journey at the prestigious Beijing Dance Academy. Her exceptional talent and dedication led to a scholarship at the esteemed Royal Ballet School in London. These formative experiences not only honed her technical skills but also broadened her artistic horizons, deepening her understanding and appreciation of ballet as an art form.

 

Upon her return to China, Sijia's exceptional abilities quickly earned her a coveted position as Principal Ballerina at the renowned Shanghai Ballet Company. During her illustrious 14-year tenure with the company, she graced the stage with her captivating artistry and technical prowess, mesmerizing audiences in leading roles across a diverse repertoire of productions. Her performances garnered widespread acclaim, establishing her as a prominent figure in the Chinese ballet scene. In addition to her performance career, Sijia actively contributed to the dance community as a member of the Shanghai Dancers Association, playing a vital role in fostering the growth and development of dance in Shanghai.

 

Driven by an unwavering passion for ballet and a deep desire to share her knowledge and expertise, Sijia transitioned into a new role as a full-time ballet lecturer at the Shanghai Yuandong Ballet School. Her commitment to artistic and pedagogical excellence led her to pursue a Master in Fine Arts degree at the Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts. Upon completing her studies, she joined the faculty as a ballet lecturer and choreographer, imparting her wisdom and inspiring the next generation of dancers. Simultaneously, she demonstrated her versatility and business acumen by contributing to the Hong Kong Ballet Company's Business Development department and serving as Guest Photographer.

 

Sijia's career trajectory then took an exciting turn as she ventured into the dynamic world of media and communication. As a Director, Reporter, and Editor at Shanghai Media Group International Channel Shanghai, she honed her storytelling and communication skills, further expanding her creative repertoire. Currently, she serves as a Director at the Shanghai Film Group Corporation, where she continues to make significant contributions to the film industry in Shanghai.

 

Throughout her remarkable career, Sijia's exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and artistic accomplishments have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. These include the prestigious British Council Cultural Exchange Scholarship, the Bronze Medal at the National Ballet Competition, the Shanghai New Talent Award, and the Second Rank Principal Dancer status of the People's Republic of China. She has also represented China on the international stage at a gala performance in San Francisco and received the Outstanding Achievement Award at the Shanghai Dance and Choreographic Competition. Her academic pursuits have been equally distinguished, earning her accolades such as the Hong Kong Association of University Women Postgraduate Award and the HKAPA School of Dance Dean's Prize.