Last night I was lucky enough to attend the Chinese New Year Festival in Heidelberg, hosted in the city's ornate Kongresshaus building in the old town the event was a rare insight into East Asian culture.
This
year Chinese New Year falls on Friday. The age old festivity usually
lasts for fifteen days and celebrates the triumph of a village over the
mythical beast Nian; the townspeople realising the creature was
frightened of red proceeded hang bright red lanterns and ornaments
outside their homes to repel the monster. During the festival red is
often used to commemorate the tradition.
The
Chinese New Year Festival in Heidelberg was an eclectic mix of German
and Eastern culture. The presenters, German and Chinese students from
the University of Heidelberg, effortlessly switched between the German
and Chinese language.
The
talent on display was of a high standard and the performances ranged
from high energy rock ballads and comedy sketches, to mesmerising
classical music pieces. It was also great to see martial arts acts
accompanied by authentic Chinese musical instruments.
As
the event reached its second half the mood drifted into suspense, as a
lone Taekwondo performer prepared to break a solid block of wood with
his bare heel. Held breaths were quickly released as the crowd erupted
into applause. The performer celebrated with spinning kicks as the
broken blocks of wood fled with the relieved volunteer backstage.
2014
is the year of the Horse which symbolises prosperity and friendship.
The event was a great chance to experience a little of Chinese culture
and it's left me feeling optimistic for the year ahead in Heidelberg.
Happy Chinese New Year – may the horse be with you!
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