CHINESE NEW YEAR: China's diversity to be represented by regional dance troupes at celebrations

Published: 19 February 2010
by JAFAR HASSAN

AS part of London’s Chinese New Year celebrations, party-goers will be able to see traditional Chinese song and dance performed in Trafalgar Square. Each act aims to show off the richness and diversity of China's expansive culture.

The China Central Ethnic Song and Dance Ensemble, established in 1952, have brought their spectacular show of vibrant colours and delightful performances to more than 100 countries. Representing 37 different national minorities from provinces all over China, the ensemble has benefited from this vast array of cultures and bring it to life in their shows. Those attending the Trafalgar Square performance should expect traditional song and dance from all over China and performances inspired by the Beijing Opera.

Audiences will also be witness to culture from one of China’s largest yet somewhat more obscure regions – the south-western province of Sichuan. The Sichuan Art Troupe (pictured above) blend martial arts, stunts, music, dance and costumes to create a multi-award winning show. The troupe will be performing traditional Sichuan song and dance to herald the start of the Year of the Tiger and to celebrate the Chinese New Year.