Chinese Gala thrills audience with cultural performances

BARBADIANS turned out in their numbers on Tuesday night to witness a night of spectacular Chinese cultural performances.

The gala event was held in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of Barbados-China diplomatic relations.

The large audience made up of all ages, packed Frank Collymore Hall to observe the skill and agility of the members of the inimitable Tianjin Art Troupe who opened a window through which Barbadians could get a glimpse into the rich Chinese culture.

From martial arts presentations, demonstrations of weapons of Wushu, including whip, sword and spear. To one amazing performer’s act of balancing a table with her feet and effortlessly spinning it on its table top and sides; the amazing double contortionists and acrobatic ballet couple were also well-received by those in attendance. They too were mesmerised by the haunting melody coming from the playing of the traditional guzheng (plucked string instrument).

The performers also thrilled audiences with the fluidity of their dance moves and precise movements in vibrant traditional garb .

The highlight for many was the joint performance by local artistes with the visiting Tianjin group as they performed the Chinese song “Jasmine Flower” and the traditional Bajan folk song “John Belly Mama”.