Rehearsals for 60th anniversary of People's Republic of China

(NECN/CCTV) – Almost 60-thousand performers crowded into Beijing’s Tiananmen Square late on Saturday night to rehearse a spectacular show for the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China on 1 October. State-run CCTV on Sunday showed footage of performers singing and dancing in colorful dresses. Fireworks were also put on during the rehearsal, lighting up the sky over Tiananmen Square area, which was subject to strict security. Few details have been published for the anniversary celebrations, but a keynote address from President Hu Jintao is expected, followed by a military parade and performances involving 200-thousand people, with fireworks and some 60 floats. Like most official party events, the National Day festivities are expected to be tightly choreographed spectacles, with this one centering on the huge parade. Public security has been increased in the capital in recent months in a campaign similar to last year’s Olympic Games. Authorities have inspected all basements in the city, while some restaurants with roof terraces have been told not to seat patrons on sides overlooking the street.