By
Bill Lee
This performance was a grand way to introduce Chinese
culture to the American community. Over 200 families and friends, predominantly non-Chinese Americans,
attended. UMSL, Dr. Joel Glassman, Director of the Center for
International Studies, University of Missouri and the St. Louis Chinese American News can
be credited with much of the successful turnout.
Everyone of the ten segments of the show was just super! Beautiful hostess Xuemei Chen was very
entertaining. The Lion Dance was funny. One could have heard the tiny ping of a straight pin hitting the
floor during the Crossroads Inn skit. The loudest sound was that of the occasional swishing of swords.
These and the Monkey King skit martial arts dancers were all very skillful.
Liqin Li and Baoli Zhang have indeed learned to bring out the character of the ancient hammered dulcimer and
two-string violin. Liqin Li's solos were artful and symphonic.
And how can one describe the stamina, grace and perfectly timed movements of the dancers -- it
certainly tests the limits of my English. The costumes were breathtaking; the dancers were beautiful
-- every one worthy of star status. The interpretations were eloquent.
My last words are these: If you had an opportunity to
go and you did not, too bad -- you missed a great show. If you were looking for some outstanding way to
spend this Wednesday evening, this is where you should
have been. Like me, you should make it a point to be here next time this group graces our doorstep.
Bill, Virginia Lee (R) and friends enjoy the show |
