Choreographed by award-winner Helen Lai, the show combines modern dance, ice-skating, Bach's cello pieces, fiery tango music and poetry to display the cold and passionate sides of human nature.

It is not surprising that Lai has found the perfect partner in Liu, who had won silver medals at the American Open Professional Championships and Asian Skating Union Trophy International.

Liu has experienced the ruthless nature of sport and the beauty of the arts.

'[Dancing] is more about art and expressing something that you want to say, whereas skating is more about technique. In dance, the technique is a means to achieve an end. The similarity is that both [sport and dancing] require a lot of discipline and strength,' says Liu. Liu has always been disciplined. As a young boy, he studied at the School of American Ballet in New York on a full scholarship.

He was even selected by George Balanchine, founder of the school and one of the greatest modern choreographers, to undergo intensive training with Stanley Williams.

Liu, who joined the school at the age of 11, recalls the 'intense but very good' times when he was immersed in studying and dancing.

When he later decided to pursue an ice-skating career, he had to practise before morning classes. And that meant going to the ice-rink at dawn.

'It was very competitive at the school. Most dancers who made it had a lot of self-motivation and drive.

'Because it is so physically demanding, I don't think anyone can force anyone to do it,' Lui says.

With his background in dancing, it was natural for him to become a dancer and choreographer after leaving his sporting career behind.

'A lot of athletes get lost once they stop [taking part in] competitions. They don't know what to do with their skating skills. For me it was a natural transition. I've always known that I wanted to be an artist,' Liu adds.

Call Urbtix on 2734 9009 for ticket reservations