Chinese Day at IGS was a vibrant celebration of one of the world’s most influential cultures, offering students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Chinese traditions and gain a deeper appreciation for its rich heritage. The day was packed with activities that highlighted significant cultural practices, culminating in performances that showcased the beauty and artistry of Chinese performance arts.
Mooncake Making: A Taste of Mid-Autumn Festival
One of the highlights of the day was the mooncake-making activity. Mooncakes are a central part of the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, which is one of the most important traditional festivals in Chinese culture. This festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, is a time for family reunions and thanksgiving. The round shape of the mooncake symbolises completeness and unity, reflecting the core values of family and togetherness. By making and sharing mooncakes, students not only learned about this delicious aspect of Chinese culture but also participated in a tradition that has been passed down for generations.
The day culminated in a series of spectacular performances that brought the vibrancy of Chinese culture to life.
Changing Faces Performance: This unique art form, known as “Bian Lian,” is a subgenre of Sichuan opera where performers switch masks almost instantaneously. The performance is not only visually stunning but also culturally significant, symbolising the changing moods and complexities of human nature. The students were amazed by the speed and skill involved, gaining an appreciation for the mastery required to perform this centuries-old tradition.
Dragon Dance: The dragon dance is one of the most iconic symbols of Chinese culture, often performed during festive occasions to bring good luck and prosperity. The dragon, a symbol of strength, power, and good fortune, is believed to chase away evil spirits. Watching the dragon weave and swirl in a lively dance, students could feel the energy and joy that this performance brings to communities during celebrations like Chinese New Year.
Martial Arts Display: Martial arts have been an integral part of Chinese culture for thousands of years, with roots in philosophy, health, and self-defense. The martial arts display showcased the discipline, skill, and deep cultural connections associated with practices like Kung Fu. Students were not only entertained by the impressive moves but also learned about the cultural significance of martial arts as a means of promoting balance, respect, and self-improvement.
The success of Chinese Day at IGS would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of our languages teachers and staff. Their commitment to providing students with an authentic and enriching cultural experience was evident in every aspect of the day’s events.
As we reflect on this special day, we are reminded of the importance of cultural understanding and the value of bringing diverse traditions into our school community. We look forward to many more opportunities to celebrate and learn from the rich cultures that make up our global community.