The “China and Portuguese-speaking Countries Gala Performance” of the first edition of the “Encounter in Macau – Arts and Cultural Festival between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries”, organized by the Cultural Affairs Bureau, was staged today (Friday) at 8pm at the Macao Cultural Centre Grand Auditorium.Gansu Performing Arts Troupe and various artists and groups from eight Portuguese-speaking countries were invited to offer ancient music and lively songs and dance performances. A number of enthralling cultural performances were presented, creating a lively atmosphere and receiving rounds of applause. On the same night, the organizer hosted a banquet for guests, participating artists and coordinating staff.
This Gala Performance has demonstrated the unique characteristics and charm of the Sino-lusophone cultures. While presenting to the audience the arts and cultural development of the participating countries and regions, it also provided the performers a platform for cultural exchange and performances. Artists from Gansu Province offered festive and joyful songs and dance performances as a form of intangible cultural heritage, showcasing the ethnic customs of Northwest China; Portuguese musicians brought ancient Portuguese melodies; folk musicians from Angola and Cape Verde led the audience on a journey through the African continent with their enchanting music; traditional dances of Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique and East Timor were uniquely different but equally wonderful; singers from São Tomé and Príncipe and Brazil exuded the charm of contemporary Latin. The performance also presented the local famous landmarks and beautiful sceneries, offering audiovisual appeal to the audience and allowing them to experience the unique cultures and customs of the participating countries and regions.
In addition, on the occasion of the “Encounter in Macau – Arts and Cultural Festival between China and Portuguese-Speaking Countries”, the organizer hosted a banquet for the guests, participating artists and coordinating staff. In his speech, the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Alexis Tam Chon Weng, stated that this event would mark the official establishment of the cultural exchange and cooperation mechanism between China and Portuguese-speaking countries in Macao, and would make contribution in bringing people closer together and cooperation between the countries. In addition to its rich world cultural heritage, advanced tourism and leisure facilities, Macao was also named “Creative City of Gastronomy” by UNESCO in last November, demonstrating Macao’s cultural diversity and creativity. He encouraged guests to experience the diverse charm of Macao, and thanked all participants for their support and participated, hoping that through the event, it will jointly initiate a new milestone for cultural and artistic exchange and create a new era of cultural exchange between China and Portuguese-speaking countries.
