The Olympic Sailing Center in China's coastal city of Qingdao has been transformed into the backdrop of a gala performance, called "Blue Imagination". Using the real scenery of the ocean, the performance treated the audience to a double enjoyment.

The theatre was surrounded by sea on three sides. Audiences can watch the performance while enjoying the sea breeze, and the sound of the sea.

The performance uses modern technology in its stage set and lighting to accentuate Qingdao as a beautiful seaside city. Audiences are transported to a delightful beach scene, and are then plunged into the sea for a view of the world below.

After enjoying the show, local citizens said they were mesmerized by the unique performance and felt that they were in a fantasy land.

"Blue Imagination" also aims to project Qingdao's image as the capital of sailing. The show integrates acrobatics, magic and sports to demonstrate the fun side of the sport.

(CCTV August 13, 2009)