Gennelle Smith previews a trio act from Edinburgh at the local Harrogate Theatre
The spectacle that awaited me at the York Grand Opera House last Saturday was not something I ever expected to experience in York. If someone had tapped me on the shoulder and told me I was still in York, I would have been surprised. The cultural transformation was all encompassing – the programs were in Chinese, the audience was Chinese and half the show was in Chinese.
The effect was so realistic that it felt like I was actually in China watching the traditional Lunar celebrations. Not being able to understand the commentary by the magnificently dressed presenters and sitting through a half hour stand up comedy act in Chinese enhanced the visual performances considerably. For those of you who have taken a gap year, you’ll understand the awe that comes with being entirely immersed into another culture.
The acts themselves were breathtaking. Shao Lin monks broke steel rods against their heads and thick wooden sticks against their chests to the delight of the audience. The Lion Dance was extremely impressive, with two people rolling around and doing acrobatic stunts underneath a lion costume. Unless you’ve seen one yourself, it is impossible to convey the beauty of the traditional Lion Dance well performed.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of the show was the acrobats. Three girls contorted themselves into the most ridiculous positions and demonstrated extreme strength. It was the kind of performance that belongs in the Cirque de Soleil, not a one off show.
The Chinese Student and Scholar Association deserve tremendous congratulations for their organisation of such a high quality, smoothly orchestrated spectacle. The result would rival other student productions, such as York Come Dancing, in its presentation.
Perhaps the only setback was the failure of more British students to attend. Stemming from the misconception that such cultural events are for international students rather than British ones, many missed out on a performance worthy of any professionals.
Indeed my reluctant plus one who came along out of duty rather than desire came away very pleasantly surprised. For a University full of students who travel madly and enjoy culture, never forget to look close to home when in search of novel experiences!
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