YANGON: The Bowen Chinese School brought the spirit of the Spring Festival to life with a vibrant cultural event held here on Saturday (Jan 25), featuring traditional Chinese and Myanmar songs, dance performances and poetry recitations by about 1,000 students.
Participants included students from Bowen Chinese School, the National University of Arts and Culture (Yangon) and a primary school in Yangon's Hlaingthaya township.
The event, held at the National Theater of Yangon, is a cultural collaboration between China and Myanmar, allowing children to experience the beauty of both cultures, Cho Cho Myint, principal of Bowen Chinese School, told Xinhua.
Now in its third year, this Spring Festival celebration event has seen an increase in participation from Myanmar students, enhancing the "Paukphaw" (fraternal) friendship between the two nations, she said.
The collaboration offered a unique platform for students from both countries to explore and appreciate each other's heritage, the principal added.
The children were filled with excitement and joy during the event. Ei Ei Khine, 15, a student from the Bowen Chinese School, said "I had so much fun preparing for this event. It made me feel closer to my culture and my friends."
Mu Thit Thakin, 11, a student from the primary school in Hlaingthaya township, shared her excitement about performing.
"I came here to showcase my dancing skills on stage. I felt happy and excited, and having my friends with me made it less stressful."
Saw Kyaw Lwin Htoo, 23, a lecturer from the National University of Arts and Culture, highlighted the importance of preserving Myanmar's puppetry tradition.
"We performed with puppets. Our country's puppetry tradition is fading, so this event gave us a chance to present our culture to a large audience.
"I'm really glad to see so many young people enthusiastically participating."
The excitement was shared by parents and teachers, who expressed their pride in the children's efforts.
"It's heartwarming to see the younger generation keeping our traditions alive through music and dance.
"These events teach them the values and stories behind the Spring Festival," said one parent.
Bowen Chinese School's Spring Festival celebration not only honoured tradition but also created lasting memories for students, families, and the community, she added. - Xinhua
