February 16, 2001

Contact: Robert Lowery (509-963-1487/fax 509-963-2301/ e-mail loweryr@cwu.edu)

ELLENSBURG - Two performers with the Beijing Dancing Institute were killed and more than 20 people were injured this morning (FRIDAY, FEB. 16) when three vans carrying the troupe crashed in icy conditions on U.S. 395 south of Ritzville. The performers were in Ellensburg this past Wednesday for a performance of "China in Dance 2001: Legends of the Dynasties." More than 600 were in attendance for the McConnell Auditorium presentation.

In response to the tragedy, the CWU Foundation today established a benevolence fund for the injured performers.

"They paid their own way here and don't have medical insurance in the United States," Hong Xiao, CWU sociology professor, says. "Financially they really need the help."

The injured dancers, from the Beijing Dancer Academy Prep School, are 16 and 17 years old, Hong adds.

"We ask the central Washington community to extend generous support to them," she says.

Contributions can be made to the CWU Foundation for "China in Dance," Barge 406, 400 East 8th Avenue, Ellensburg, Wash. 98926-7508.