2024 Program

Chinese Traditional Instrument

Chinese musical instruments and music have a rich cultural history. Among the most renowned traditional instruments are the guzheng, also known as the Chinese zither; the pipa, a four-stringed lute; and the erhu, often referred to in the West as the Chinese violin or two-stringed fiddle. These instruments are capable of producing famous compositions such as Two Springs Reflect the Moon, showcasing the distinct allure of Eastern music. Their performances convey the profound essence of Chinese civilization, resonating with audiences both in China and around the world.

Dragon and lion Dance

In Chinese culture, the dragon symbolizes power and boldness, while the lion represents strength, stability, and superiority. As a result, lion and dragon dances are typically performed on special occasions, such as Chinese New Year, to chase away demons and evil spirits and welcome prosperity. The critical difference between the two is that the dragon dance is performed by many people holding the body of the dragon on poles. In contrast, the lion dance is performed by only two people—one manipulating the lion's head and the other its tail.

Shadow Play

Shadow play, also known as shadow puppetry, is an ancient traditional folk art in China and is considered the earliest form of motion picture art in the world. Puppeteers use puppets against an illuminated backdrop to create the illusion of movement. During a shadow play, the puppeteers hide behind a white curtain and manipulate the stick-mounted puppets while narrating the story through folk songs. Shadow plays were primarily performed for entertainment, religious rituals, weddings, funerals, and other special occasions. It has given Chinese people many joyous times for thousands of years.

Chinese Traditional Dance

Traditional Chinese dance includes ethnic minority, folk, and classical Chinese dance. Ethnic minority and folk dances, rooted in daily life and rituals, are joyous and celebratory. Classical Chinese dance, originating from court performances, is more diverse, conveying a wide range of emotions, characters, and complex narratives. It brings to life ancient legends, reflecting the profound morals and depth of China's five thousand years of civilization.