BEIJING, June 12 -- On the heals of the Aboriginal Art exhibition that opened in Beijing on Wednesday, "Imagine Australia, the Year of Australian Culture in China" was formally kicked off on Thursday night at the National Center for the Performing Arts.
The "Australia Highlights Variety Concert" marked the opening, and presented stage gems by some creative and curious people.
Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, opened the event with a speech.
William Barton, a descendant of the Indigenous Kalkadunga people, began the concert with an absorbing sonic and visual experience of the Australian night and day. Photographer Allan Chawner's powerful images of Kalkadunga land were projected throughout a program of evocative vocal music and Barton's ancient and haunting didgeridoo.
The gala concert also featured a range of performers and genres, from modern interpretations of ancient Indigenous dance by Bangarra Dance Theatre, to a soaring virtuoso performance from violinist Niki Vasilakis.
Band of Brothers gave an exhilarating performance that featured a fusion of world flavors. And singer-songwriter Jessica Mauboy showcased her youthful energy.
The concert took the audience on a journey through Australia's diverse and colorful performing arts world.
An audience member said, "I have never been to Australia and today is my first acquaintance of the country and its culture and art. The modern performances and indigenous art have gone beyond my expectation."
An audience member said, "It is a very delightful experience. Now, I would like to know more about Australia."
Within one year, the events will showcase a dynamic, modern and multicultural Australia and fully broaden your imagination of the country. "Passion", a blending of western and Peking opera, Australian National Boys Choir concert, and youth media projects are among the highlights.
(Source: cntv.cn)
