Mid-Autumn Spectacular ‘absolutely delightful,’ says City Councilor

TORONTO—As the Divine Performing Arts Mid-Autumn Spectacular continues its 5-day run at Toronto’s John Bassett Theatre, audiences never fail to be thrilled with the unique cultural show.

Oshawa city councilor Louise Parkes, who attended Thursday’s show, is no exception.

“It’s a spectacular show. It’s very engaging, serious, subtle and absolutely delightful. I’m surely enjoying both singers — the baritone and the soprano — but also the dance.”

In presenting the Spectacular, Divine Performing Arts draws on the splendour and depth China’s long history and ancient culture.

“It’s quite extraordinary, the history of China. I guess it’s a written history, it’s significant to the world. Five thousand years is extraordinary,” Ms. Parkes said.

She also commented on the “important message” imparted by the show.

“I think it’s a very important message, it’s about harmony, it’s about balance and respect for diversity. Respect for diversity is paramount because it breeds creativity and moves society forward,” said the councilor.

“I think it’s very important that western society understands that China has a very rich and diverse history with many people with many influences and that’s sometimes what we forget because we just see what’s on the news. This is a very rich history that influences the world.”

Ms. Parkes added that while she enjoys both pop and classical music, she found the music in the Spectacular, with its blend of Western and Chinese instruments, to be “very melodic, very enjoyable and relaxed and still engaging.”

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 show’s content is presented in both Chinese and English. For more information, visit: http://www.divineshows.com/Toronto .