by Li Huizi
WELLINGTON, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- An art troupe from Henan Province in central China delivered a vibrant cultural performance on Tuesday in New Zealand's South Island, enchanting audiences with displays of Kung Fu, acrobatics and traditional Chinese opera.
The Henan Art Troupe, which made waves with a celebrated performance at the United Nations Headquarters earlier this year, made its Southern Hemisphere debut before more than 800 people in Christchurch, the largest city in New Zealand's South Island, the organizers said.
Showcasing the rich heritage of China's Central Plains, the troupe staged world-class Kung Fu, Qigong mastery, acrobatics, Chinese folk music, and traditional Yu Opera, the iconic traditional art form of Henan.
Sulekha Korgaonkar, a member of the audience, described the music as "really beautiful." She especially enjoyed the Shaolin Kung Fu display, as she practises Tai Chi herself. She told Xinhua she has visited Hong Kong and looks forward to touring Henan Province in the future.
Alongside the gala, an intangible cultural heritage exhibition featured Chinese calligrapher Li Fang, who demonstrated fan painting with Chinese characters.
"Tonight's performance is not just a showcase of artistic excellence, it is a beautiful expression of cultural connection between the peoples of China and New Zealand," Christchurch City Councillor Victoria Henstock said in her speech.
Chinese Consul General in Christchurch He Ying described Henan as a vital cradle of Chinese civilization rich in history and culture. She expressed hope that the event would help more New Zealanders discover Henan, inviting them to experience its magnificent culture and scenery firsthand.
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