by Julia Pierrepont III
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- In an appreciative nod to Chinese culture, Hollywood kicked off three weeks of Chinese New Year celebrations in Southern California with Ovation Hollywood's annual party on Saturday.
One of Tinseltown's most iconic venues as the home of the Academy Awards, Ovation Hollywood offered a stage for dazzling performances. The shopping center and entertainment complex was adorned with signature red lanterns and intricate paper cuttings, reflecting the traditional symbolism of luck and prosperity.
The air was filled with the rhythms of gongs, drums and laughter as thousands of guests, many new to the holiday, participated in interactive workshops, sampled regional delicacies and watched mesmerizing performances on stage.
The highlights included a special high-profile fashion show by renowned designer Kiki Wang, entitled "East Meets West." Her unique blend of Western high-fashion sophistication with glittering Asian elements, influences and motifs proved a showstopper, drawing appreciative murmurs from the audience.
"I hope that the world will see not only China's glorious ancient traditions, but also its modern side that evolves and integrates with the global fashion scene," she told Xinhua.
The event featured a lively lineup of performers, each bringing a unique aspect of Chinese culture to the fore. Front and center were traditional lion and dragon dance troupes, whose colorful costumes and acrobatic movements captivated audiences of all ages.
Musical performances ranged from classical Chinese instrumentalists playing the guzheng and erhu to contemporary artists blending Eastern and Western styles. Emmy Award-winning American composer Nathan Wang, known for his work on Jackie Chan films and "Swallowtail & Dragonfly," also made an appearance.
Martial artists toting swords and spears performed elaborate Tai Chi routines, offering both entertainment and insight into the discipline and philosophy that underpin these ancient practices.
Guests were also treated to a variety of festive dishes, including famed Chef Wolfgang Puck's innovative take on traditional sticky rice balls and dumplings.
Attendees included local residents, tourists and members of the Chinese American community. From children practicing calligraphy to families watching lion dances, the event offered a warm invitation to learn about Chinese traditions firsthand.
The star-studded event was co-organized by Hollywood film producer Evelyn Xu.
"It's our honor to share such rich family-oriented traditions with the whole LA community," Xu told Xinhua, "As Los Angeles continues to celebrate its multicultural identity, events like these remind us that the bridges we build through shared traditions are essential for a harmonious and vibrant community."
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