By: Catrina Leone
It is not only a new year 2014, but it is also the “Year of the Horse”, which was celebrated at the Cleveland Masonic and Performance Arts Center on February 8th. Our own Leah Haslage was there to cover this event! This gala was presented by the Confucius Institute at Cleveland State University.
It wouldn’t be an event in Cleveland without great entertainment! It was provided by performers directly from China-a renowned art troupe from Northeast Normal University in Changchun, the capital of Jillin province. The troupe is well received by audiences and has traveled internationally performing in many countries. The program titled “China Welcomes Spring,” promised to deliver an unforgettable evening of rich Chinese culture, complete with modern and traditional dances, music, painting, arts, calligraphy and martial arts, promising to be a great night!
Dr. Haigang Zhou said, “Short of actually traveling to China, you won’t find a better way of celebrating Chinese New Year.” Dr. Haigang is the director of the Confucius Institute and associate professor of finance at CSU.
He also spoke highly of the performers stating, “These talented young performers are among the finest in China. Their multidimensional production highlights the diversity of Chinese Culture, with many of China’s different ethnic groups represented. It is a full menu of authentic Chinese entertainment.”
Chinese New Year actually fell on January 31st, but this occasion is not a one time deal. Spring Festival (as the holiday is known in China) traditionally stretches over two weeks. The Confucius Institute at CSU- one of the only four such centers in Ohio and approximately 100 across the United States-is dedicated to sharing Chinese language and culture with Northeast Ohio, especially students at CSU and in local schools as well.
This event is a wonderful way to learn about the Chinese culture and to bring people together, and that’s exactly what it was! Stay tuned to TV20 for more on this story in our “Weekly News Wrap-up” all next week, as well as others happening in our area. Happy Valentine’s Day!<3
*All photo’s provided by: Ruggero Fatica*
