Curtis Wright, originally from a small town in Arkansas, moved to New York City and is now the Director of Co-Curricular programs at Wagner College.
Wright acquired an appreciation and respect for Chinese culture and philosophy through books but has never seen a live, Chinese-style performance. He's happy to report a broader appreciation after experiencing NTDTV's Chinese New Year Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.
At Wagner College, Wright advises the student government which selects activities for Wagner's students. Back in Arkansas, he was not exposed to the diverse ethnic groups that make up New York City. Staten Island, though part of New York, still has the feel of a small town, said Wright. He thinks the best candidates for exploring their horizons are college students because they are in "the last lab" before entering society and the real world.
Wright hopes Wagner's students will reflect on harmony and diversity. It is why he was excited about watching The Chinese New Year Spectacular. "Chinese culture is based on harmonizing with nature," said Wright.
"It will have an impact. I can tell the story first hand," said Wright.
Walking with the crowd towards the theater exit at the end of the show, Wright was quiet at first, but then he softly smiled. "This show was about recognizing and respecting that we are connecting to something bigger then we are."
He mostly loved the ending performance of the roaring drums. The show announcers explained that Chinese people believe drums clear out evil spirits and thus help establish a great new year.
Wright said that drums signify a mother's heart beat to American Indians and, to Africans, symbolize their history. "The drums connect us all; it was a great piece to end the show."
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