London: With dancers from China, a Bengali title and a score of Asian electronica, choreographer Akram Khan's new show focuses on cultural identity at its European premiere in culture Capital Liverpool. "Bahok," which means "Carrier," is set in an airport waiting room, mixes classical ballet with contemporary and traditional Asian dance and features several performers from the National Ballet of China.

It looks at how people from different parts of the world relate to each other, dramatised in dance. Khan, 33, was born in Britain and grew up idolising Michael Jackson and was introduced to Bengali folk dancing by his mother. He incorporates influences from around the world throughout his work. As well as the Chinese dancers, "Bahok" also features dancers from countries including India, South Africa, Slovakia and Spain.

"It is really an ensemble work, we managed to bring out their individual characteristics much more," said producer Farooq Chaudhry. "The Chinese have done an extraordinary journey in a year and a half." The show premiered in Beijing in January but was first shown in Europe in the northern English city of Liverpool, designated one of this year's European Capitals of Culture, on Friday and Saturday.

The score was written by Nitin Sawhney, an award-winning British DJ and multi-instrumentalist who fuses electronica, jazz and world music and has collaborated with Khan on five other works.