In line with its cultural diplomacy efforts to project the Philippines in Fujian province, the Philippine Consulate General in Xiamen organized a gala performance of Ballet Philippines on October 29 at the Jinrong Theater Xiamen Little Egret Art Center. Before an excited audience of 600 guests, Ballet Philippines (BP) dazzled with their wide range and eclectic repertoire of classical, neo-classical, modern and contemporary dances, providing a memorable evening of cultural experience. The event is part of Ballet Philippines’ China tour in three cities namely Chongqing, Xiamen and Guangzhou, under the auspices of Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
The event was held on the occasion of the 40th Anniversary of the Diplomatic Relations between the Philippines and China; 20th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Philippine Consulate General; and the First Annual Commemoration of Xiamen-Cebu Friendship Day.
In his remarks at the reception, Philippine Consul General Julius Caesar A. Flores proudly emphasized that Ballet Philippines, being the Philippines’ premier classical and contemporary dance company, is the epitome of Filipino artistry and talent in the performing arts. He further added that BP’s visit to Xiamen is a valuable contribution to enhancing people-to-people contacts between Fujian province and the Philippines.
The Chinese officials expressed their sincere appreciation for the Consulate General’s efforts in bringing Ballet Philippines to Xiamen to highlight milestone events between the two countries.
The gala performance in Xiamen was organized under the auspices of the DFA Office of the Undersecretary for International Economic Relations – Cultural Division Unit, in cooperation with Xiamen Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the Xiamen Municipal Government, Xiamen People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and Xiamen Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio-Film-Television, Press and Publication. The Filipino Chinese Federation Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Filipino Chinese Association of the Philippines also provided their support to this event.
The performance was recorded by Chinatown TV (from Manila) and Xiamen TV as well as witnessed by the Consulate General’s media contacts./DFA
