It's time again for one of the biggest arts festivals in the Chinese capital. "Meet In Beijing", a party that descends on the city every Spring, is back with its four-week 2011 edition starting in late April. CCTV's reporter Shen Li went to the press conference Thursday and got a peek at what's in store in for this year.
"Meet In Beijing", a party that descends on the city every Spring, is back with its four-week 2011 edition starting in late April.
Fans of arts and culture in Beijing, whether they are interested in Chinese ballet, Canadian acapella shows or Caribbean cuisine, have a whole month and more to enjoy themselves, as the annual Meet in Beijing Arts Festival returns to the capital. Over 40 art troupes from around the world will showcase their passion and talents.
This year, Canada was invited as the Guest Country of Honor and the opening concert feature five Canadian art groups.
At the press conference, Mark Rowswell, well-known Canadian scholar and TV host known as Dashan in China, was honored as the image ambassador of the Guest of Honor event.
Chinese singing sensation Gong Lin'na shows off her vocals, interpreting the famous Chinese folk song "Jasmine Flower" in three different styles.
"We have such a rich vocal culture among the different regions, one simple folk song like "Jasmine Flower" could have some many variations. So for this year's Meet In Beijing arts festival, I'll be bringing a solo concert, exploring the many possibilities of Chinese folk singing. Hopefully through my performance more can become interested in appreciating and preserving our own cultural legacy," said singer Gong Lin'na.
Organizers say the event is not just about introducing international artists to China, but also serves as a platform to showcase home grown talents.
"For this year's event, there'll be more home-made dance pieces like the National Ballet of China's latest production "Crane Whisperer" and an original modern dance piece "Tsangyang Gyasto" telling the story of the 6th Dalai Lama. The Meet In Beijing arts festival is like a window to the world," said Zhu Yu, President of China Arts & Entertainment Group.
Following the sensation caused by last year’s closing performances Reunion in the Dream and The Jewelry Purse, famous Peking Opera artist Zhang Huoding will perform Cheng School's classic production Legend of the White Snake, as this year’s closing ceremony.
Caribbean culture will also be emphasized, with percussion music, folk songs and modern dance from Argentina, Mexico, and many other countries set to dazzle audiences.
