14/2/2023
The past four weeks saw crowds of locals take part in celebratory events across Nottingham to welcome the arrival of the Chinese New Year of the Rabbit. Organised or supported by Nottingham Confucius Institute, the events ranged from the Chinese New Year Gala at Nottingham Playhouse (19 January), workshops at seven locals schools and University departments (18 January – 4 February), arts and crafts workshops and “Moon Rabbit and other Stories from China” storytelling theatre for families and children at Lakeside Arts (28-29 January and 5 February), to the amazing procession, performances and fireworks at the city centre (27-29 January).
All of the events were very well received.
“Lakeside DHL Pavilion was packed to the rafters with people enjoying different aspects of Chinese New Year Celebrations, none of which could have been delivered without you” commented Shona Powell OBE, Director of Lakeside Arts, adding “It was wonderful to see all the fans and lanterns being carried into the theatre for the Moon Rabbit performances!”
“My seven-year old daughter and I really enjoyed the lantern making workshop followed by the Moon Rabbit storytelling show. They were brilliant!” said one participant.
“The procession and show at the Old Market Square were fantastic. It felt like such a long time since we had Chinese New Year celebrations before COVID. It’s good to feel the festive cheers again!” commented another event attendee.
Click here to watch a short video clip capturing some of the event highlights!
We would like to say a big thank you to all of our staff, volunteers and partners including Lakeside Arts, Nottingham University CSSA, Nottingham City Council and Cosmopolitan Arts. We could not have done it without their dedication and support.
This is the first time since COVID began three years ago that we were able to hold large scale events for Chinese New Year. May the Year of the Rabbit bring peace, harmony and tranquillity to everyone!
~ENDS~
Posted on Tuesday 14th February 2023