TORONTO—Richard Zalewski has attended quite a few Moon Festivals in his time, but he says the Mid-Autumn Spectacular which played this Sunday at the John Bassett Theatre outshone them all.
“I have been to quite a few, but nothing on this scale before. This one was very spectacular,” said Mr. Zalewski, an IT specialist.
“It was beautifully choreographed; the music was excellent and it carried a poignant social message and I thought it was great.”
Mr. Zalewski, who came to the show with his wife, said he learned a little about the Chinese culture through the show, which showcases China’s traditional culture using various art forms including Chinese classical dance.
“It seems there is a strong move to bring the culture back and I think that that is pretty important all around, from all perspectives, not just from the Chinese culture but from all cultures. I think it is important to keep our heritages alive.”
Nymphs of the Sea was his favorite piece in the Spectacular, and he’s looking forward to the next show on New Year’s Eve.
“New Year’s is an even more special and important time in the Chinese culture,” he said.
Don Ramdeholl and wife Lisa also attended Sunday’s show. One performance that stood out for Mr. Ramdeholl was the Mongolian Bowl Dance.
“The costumes are beautiful. It was very colourful and everyone was very nice in that show,” he said.
Mr. Ramdeholl added that the Spectacular compares with some of the best he has seen.
“The dresses, the colours, it was very graceful and the singers were fantastic — the last one was very very good.”
Lisa was equally impressed, especially with the tenor Hong Ming, who sang Rest in Knowing.
“He is like the next Pavarotti,” she said.
She added the Mid-autumn Spectacular carried a special message.
“I liked the message with compassion, forbearance and truthfulness. I thought that was fantastic and I think that is a message that could be for all over the world.”
Also at Saturday’s Spectacular was Eugene Konopinski, a diamond broker from Toronto. He said he was happy the show was in both Chinese and English because he went with his Chinese girlfriend.
“I thought it was very good. I’m really enjoying it. I like the dance. I like the costumes, the stories behind them,” said Mr. Konopinski.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of China’s most ancient and cherished holidays. The Spectacular expresses Chinese classical dance and showcases authentic traditional Chinese culture. Through background scenery, costumes, and choreography, the Spectacular expresses truthfulness, compassion, and pure beauty. China’s history comes to life in this gorgeous performance that is entertaining, inspiring, and uplifting. The content of all programs is presented in both Chinese and English. For more info, visit:http://www.divineshows.com/Toronto
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