Talent showcase welcomes Year of the Water Snake

MANILA, Philippines – What better way to welcome the Chinese New Year than to showcase talents?

Despite the traffic and the overcast weather, young and old alike took time and participated in dance and song numbers, as well as martial arts exhibitions at the Lucky Chinatown Mall on Saturday, February 9.

The audience consisted of family and friends of the performers who were busy taking photos and video of loved ones — careful to record the slightest movements and the highlights of every performance. 

The cultural performances were opened by the St Stephen High School Chinese Orchestra which played Chinese songs. Clearly, even at a young age, these children had music flowing through their veins. 

The music number was followed by several riveting performances that included a Wu Shu exhibition from the Philippine Buddhacare Academy. There was no doubt in the minds of the audience that the children practiced and are already well on their way to mastering the martial art. 

There also was a Taichi exhibition by the Luneta Taichi Group. The group, composed of adults, exhibited grace and gentleness at every turn. Mastering Taichi is a sure way to keep fit and youthful. 

Of course no celebration will be complete without children. One of the groups that performed, Jin Nan School Kindergarten Chinese Dance group, showed that big talent can also come from small packages. 

There were also complicated dance numbers such as those performed by the Chiang Kai Shek Chinese Dance Troupe. The colorful costumes and graceful movements delighted the crowd. 

The talent show also showcased choral groups such as the Chiang Kai Shek College Chorale group which delighted the crowd with jazzed up versions of some ballads like Moon River. It was just appropriate given that there were many grandparents in the audience. 

Welcoming an auspicious event like the start of the Lunar year certainly needs to be celebrated in a big way. And a talent show to usher in the new year is the perfect way to do it. – Rappler.com