An Introduction to Chinese OperaFormed from an amalgam of traditional folk song, distinctive dialects and other regional performing arts, Chinese Opera has evolved into a complex, stylised story telling, combining masks, mime, dance, acrobatics and martial arts. Traditional instruments, such as the erhu, lute and gong, combine with highly refined literary dialogue, beautifully written with many nuances. Even most Chinese need to see subtitles to follow the arcane language and unusual dialects. Color of face painting and costume is used to convey some aspects of each actor's character. Chinese Opera is full of symbolism. The artists follow many years of training. It is said that 'one minute on the stage requires ten years practice behind the scenes'. Chinese Opera joins with Sanskrit Opera and Greek tragi-comedy as among the world's oldest performance art. Long supported by China's imperial rulers, during the Qing dynasty Chinese Opera began to be enjoyed by common folk too, among which many of its roots lie. Today, Chinese Opera is a world away from modern life, but that is part of its appeal and although no longer with a mass market it continues to survive and is enjoyed by Chinese and tourists alike. There are many regional variations; Beijing Opera is primarily a fusion of these. Performances usually take place in tea houses.
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Also known as the Spring Festival, the Chinese New Year on the mainland lasts one week.
Preparations will already be under way and include a spring clean and adding festive decorations. New Year's Eve and New Year's Day are a time for family reunions, and for many this means travelling home from the city to the countryside.
Chinese New Year is celebrated in many countries and China-towns around the World.
GōngXǐ FāCái 恭喜发财 !
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The Spring Festival is about a new year, a new beginning. A time of renewal, and hope and a fresh start, a time of good-will.
For example, fireworks, apart from being a joy to all, are to scare away bad spirits. One can see this symbolize the breaking of old habits of thought – a spring clean of the mind.
A new year is a new chance for a better life – if you will take it. Keep your eyes open, heart abundant, and strive for a better world. Help others on their journey whenever you can and always share a smile. It may help another, but it will certainly be good for you.
As the second film says, it is love that brings us closer to happiness.
Above all, the Spring Festival is a time for family.
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