Before seeing the Chinese New Year Spectacular at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, city councillor Shad Qadri already had an awareness of Chinese culture and history. But after seeing the show, he expressed amazement at how broadly Chinese culture extended out to connect with the regions surrounding China.
"I was marvelling at how many lives in and around that area that Chinese culture has touched, from Mongolia to Tibet to the northern part of India, and so on," he said.
The Spectacular, a showcase of traditional Chinese dance and music created by the Divine Performing Arts company, includes prominent performances that highlight the wonderful art and culture of China's ethnic minorities.
In fact, diversity is one of the main themes that the show tries to portray.
Qadri also noted the combination of Eastern and Western music and instruments, and how the show also brought diversity to life in terms of language — English and Mandarin Chinese.
"Even the announcers who were there did a great job of adlibbing off each other, as well as adlibbing in both languages."
"I thought that was great," said Qadri. "From a diversity perspective, the message was really clear."
He added that this reflects the reality in Ottawa, since it is a city with great cultural diversity.
Overall, Qadri said he enjoyed the performances as well as the storyline behind the entertainment.
"I think the production was well done, very professional, and I was happy to see all the young people involved in the production. I thought the costuming was great, very colourful, and very bright. It was nice to see the history of China reflected through the presentation of the show."
Qadri wished everyone a Happy New Year.
"I think that's the uniqueness about Canada, to be able to mention greetings like that at different times and celebrations for different parts of our culture and society," he said.
The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of the Divine Performing Arts shows that will perform in over 60 cities worldwide in 2008. To find a show near you, please visit www.bestchineseshows.com.
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