A unique taste of China

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DESPITE the vastness of China, there thrives various minority groups, each with distinct traditions.

Seldom seen outside China, there is an interest each time these cultures are showcased in foreign lands.

That was the case when two groups — the Guangxi Qingzhou Cultural Dance Troupe and Magic Min’nan (Xiamen) Art Troupe — visited Penang for a two-night performance recently.

One with nature: The Magic Min'nan (Xiamen) Art Troupe performing Shui Xuan Hui An Ne, which tells the story of girls from Huian, China who are gentle like water lilies but also hardworking and down-to-earth.

Held at the Esplanade, the China Cultural Festival 2011 was an insightful and colourful spectacle that attracted crowds of several hundred, who braved an intermittent rainfall amidst muddy patches of grass to take in the performances.

The troupe from Guangxi, a region well-known for minority tribes like the Zhuang, portrayed dances and musical numbers that reflected their deep respect and enthusiasm for nature.

These included the Zhuang Xiang Mei (beauty of Zhang), Pao Xiu Qiu (throwing embroidered ball), Shan Ge Hao Bi Chun Jiang Shui (folk songs) and Zhuang Xiang Chuan Yun — Pan Ge (the song of Zhuang — Pan Ge), a segment from the famed variety show Liu San Jie.

On the other hand, the Xiamen group, performed Shui Xian Hui An Ne (charming Hui-an girl), Min Su Huan Ge (sing the happy folks song), Ma Ma De Ji Bei (mother’s back) and Hui-an Girls.

Marionette master Lin Wen Rong also performed a puppet show, Taming the Monkey, while another performer mesmerised the crowd with a rapid fire, Face Changing show.

Entertaining act The Face Changing performance that had the audience mesmerised.

There were also segments by guest performers from the state Cultural Performers Council and youngster Liu Han Jie.

In addition, there were also stalls selling various Chinese delicacies.

In his speech, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng expressed hope that the festival would grow to become a signature event of the state in coming years.

“Being a Unesco Heritage Site, we are keen to preserve our own culture but we also look forward to the chance of exchanging cultures with other countries. This would enable development and maintenance of better relationships, understanding and open-mindedness among people,” Lim said.

State Tourism Development and Culture committee chairman Danny Law Heng Kiang, whose office organised the event, said they were looking at making it an annual affair.

“China is full of cultures and traditions, and we should bring them over here for the benefit and enjoyment of locals, as well as promoting cross-cultural exchanges,” Law adds.