If someone mentions Snow White, it's very likely that your mental image comes from the Disney classic film from 1937. But those images are much tamer than the Grimm Brothers' fairytale. So, audiences got a few surprises at the revamped dance version of "Snow White" in Beijing over the weekend. Wearing designer costumes and going barefoot, this is not your father's fairytale.

This time around Snow White puts a modern spin on the very old tale. The adaptation is an unconventional contemporary ballet with its own dramatic content, featuring the central themes of the story of female jealousies and the unforgiving power of time.

The piece is choreographed by Angelin Preljocaj, the artistic director of the French Ballet company that bears her name. It draws elements from a variety of art forms including ballet, contemporary dance, and even rock n' roll.

One highlight of the program is its costumes, all of which were designed by fashion guru Jean-Paul Gaultier, adding a layer of chic to the unorthodox piece. White-clad Snow White is in stark contrast with her stepmother, who is dressed in sheer black, reflecting her evil intents.

The production of "Snow White" was part of the month-long "Meet In Beijing" art festival, which ends on Friday.

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