The Cultural Week of the People’s Republic of China officially kicked off on Thursday evening at the Boualem-Bessaïh Opera House in Algiers, Algeria. This vibrant event celebrates 65 years of Sino-Algerian friendship and showcases the cultural creativity and rich traditions of this East Asian nation.
Spanning two days, on October 24 and 25, 2024, this remarkable occasion is held under the patronage of Soraya Mouloudji, the Minister of Culture and Arts. It features a comprehensive program dedicated to exploring Chinese art and cultural diversity.
The opening ceremony was attended by several members of the diplomatic mission from the People’s Republic of China in Algeria, alongside senior Algerian government officials, including Smaïl Inezarene, Director of the Organization and Distribution of Cultural and Artistic Products at the Ministry of Culture and Arts, who represented Soraya Mouloudji. Attendees had the opportunity to discover and appreciate various aspects of Chinese culture and traditions.
Artistic performances, characterized by impressive technical mastery and precision, have already been showcased in public squares across the capital. These presentations are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen friendship and cultural ties between China and Algeria.
A sale exhibition featuring traditional Chinese art and craftsmanship is currently welcoming visitors in the hall of the Boualem-Bessaïh Opera House, providing a preview of performances that include traditional Chinese dance, innovative contemporary choreography, Chinese folk music and songs, as well as modern interpretations of popular tunes.
This enchanting journey, enhanced by large-screen video projections at the back of the stage, began with the “Flower Festival,” a colorful dance set to an upbeat rhythm, mimicking blooming flowers.
The audience was enthralled by the sounds of the Erhu (Chinese violin) and the Ney (flute), skillfully performed by two virtuoso musicians who delivered a traditional Chinese theme followed by “Ya Rayeh,” a beloved piece by the late Dahmane El Harrachi, which resonated deeply with the crowd.
Attendees also enjoyed “Chinese Stitches,” performed by eight ballerinas accompanied by hand-embroidered drums, followed by “Kung Fu Wushu,” presented by a duet of Chinese dancers and young Algerian artist Haïthem Kabes, leading into the “Long Sleeved Puppet Dance.”
The evening continued with captivating choreographies and evocative song titles such as “Spring Walk,” “Kong Shu” (a display of balance), “Chinese Folk Songs,” and “Changing Faces” (the evening’s highlight), culminating with an inspiring performance titled “Dance of Life and Happiness.”
In keeping with this spirit, the Cultural Week of the People’s Republic of China in Algiers will continue on Friday at the Boualem-Bessaïh Opera House, offering the public another chance to enjoy the sale exhibition in the opera’s hall and partake in additional artistic performances focused on ancestral traditions and Chinese cultural heritage.
