– Chinese calligraphy
We are thrilled to welcome renowned calligraphy artist K.K. Wong, who will be creating festive Spring Festival couplets and spreading blessings throughout the day. Visitors can also take home a personalized name bookmark, beautifully crafted by the artist—all available for a small contribution.
– Chinese paper-cutting
Chinese Paper-Cutting (Jianzhi) is a traditional folk art that transforms simple red paper into beautiful, intricate designs. Perfect for decorating windows and doors during the Lunar New Year, this hands-on activity invites you to create your own paper-cut masterpiece to take home.
– Chinese Ink Rubbing
Chinese Ink Rubbing is a traditional technique used to capture the intricate designs of ancient carvings and inscriptions. This hands-on activity lets you create your own ink rubbing keepsake, turning history into a personal piece of art.
– Porcelain Artifact Coloring
Porcelain Artifact Coloring is a fun hands-on activity where kids can decorate small porcelain pieces with colors and patterns—no brushes needed! Create your own festive keepsake to take home and celebrate the Lunar New Year.
2pm -Theatre Variety Performance featuring:
Elegance of Huangmei
*Brought to you by GCC Huangmei Troupe (成樂坊黃梅劇團)
This concert features Huangmei Tune, originated in Huangmei County, Hubei, as a folk melody with gentle rhythm and graceful lines, reflecting the warmth of rural life. Though often mentioned together, Huangmei Tune and Huangmei Opera differ. The Tune emphasizes melody and singability, while the Opera combines music, acting, and storytelling. Both are key to preserving Chinese performing traditions.
In the 1950s–60s, Hong Kong films brought Huangmei melodies to the screen in classics like The Kingdom and The Beauty and The Love Eterne, captivating audiences across Asia and leaving a lasting mark. Today marks New York’s first Huangmei-themed concert, inviting audiences to relive these timeless melodies and rediscover their elegant charm.
There will be two acts (each lasts 30 minutes long):
1. Butterfly Lovers is one of China’s most beloved love legends, telling the fateful romance between Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai — from friendship to eternal devotion. The 1963 Huangmei film The Love Eterne, based on this story, became a sensation across Asia and a timeless masterpiece. This performance presents selected classic scenes that capture the tale’s lyrical beauty and tender emotions.
2.The Last Judgement: This classic tale tells of Qin Xianglian, a devoted wife whose husband Chen Shimei abandons her and their children to pursue wealth and status. Bravely, she appeals to the famously impartial Judge Bao, who defies imperial pressure to uphold the law and deliver justice. This Huangmei performance presents Qin’s heartfelt plea, Chen’s deceit, Bao’s unwavering judgment, and the dramatic execution, combining lyrical melodies with intense stage drama.
About the director:
Yu Huang, former Rock Records singer, won the 1982 Golden Bell Award for Best Female Singer with Night Mooring at Maple Bridge. Known for her sweet, versatile voice, she performs pop, Taiwanese, Cantonese, English, and international classics.
Dr. Hsing-Lih Chou, pioneering composer of Taiwan’s Campus Folk Songs and creator of the acclaimed song Pan, holds a Doctorate from Columbia University. He promotes traditional music worldwide and has been honored as a New York State “Cultural Ambassador.”
Directed by Ms. Yu Huang, with Dr. Hsing-Lih Chou as Artistic Director. Both teachers volunteered their time and expertise to train students in vocal and stage performance, sharing their passion and dedication to preserving the beauty of Huangmei.
Food
We invite you to enjoy cultural foods including:
- Braised Rice with Pork and Soy Sauce
- 煎饺 Chicken and vegetables Potstickers
- Chicken & Vegetable Mini Wonton
- 汤圆 Glutinous Rice Balls
- 红油抄手 Spicy Wontons in Chili Oil
- Sweet dumplings (Tangyuan)