Bandar Seri Begawan - The China Overseas Exchange Association held a Chinese New Year evening gala last night at Jerudong Amphitheatre.

An arts troupe from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China performed with grace and style to convey the beauty of the Chinese culture in a performance dubbed the "Cultures of China - Festival of Spring".

The gala saw 12 performances light up the amphitheatre through traditional songs and dances, as well as rock and roll balladry, stunt puppets and even a magic show.

The Chinese Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Mr Zheng Xianglin delivered a speech at the start of proceedings, in which he described what the audience was about to see as being "a spectacular art performance".

"(The art troupe) has come to share the charms and beauties of the Chinese culture and join us in welcoming another wonderful spring," he said.

"Blessed by fascinating scenery of famous mountains, great rivers and specific KARST formations, combined with a splendid history, culture and colourful ethnic customs, Guangxi is a place full of magic and wonder," continued the ambassador.

He then welcomed the audiences and expressed his gratitude to the art troupe for their performances.

"May the China-Brunei relations enjoy continuous development," he added.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Defence, Dato Paduka Awg Hj Mustappa bin Hj Sirat and Deputy Minister of Culture Youth and Sports, Datin Paduka Hjh Adina binti Othman.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin