江苏留学网

A group of youths from Suzhou, Jiangsu province visit Singapore from Jan 21 to 26 to promote cultural exchange through performing Suzhou folk arts. [Photo/2500sz.com]

A group of youths from Suzhou, Jiangsu province went on a distinctive tour from Jan 21 to 26, forming a cultural bridge between students from Singapore and East China.

Different from common tours featuring multiple local scenic spots and museums, the youngsters visited Nan Chiau primary and high schools to expertly present the students and teachers there with performances of unique Suzhou folk arts, such as pingtan, an old style of storytelling and ballad singing in the Suzhou dialect.

Kunqu Opera, a cultural jewel of the city’s history, was also well received. The music, rhythms and gestures of the performers enchanted and inspired the crowds.

Festive New Year’s themed wood-block paintings and the embroidered crafts, vividly depicting the landscapes of picturesque Suzhou, also added a delightful flavor to the spirited environment.

Young calligraphers also reveled in the opportunity to have their brushes extend joyous greetings to the audience through writing festive couplets on pairs of red paper scrolls and printing the popular Chinese character fu (meaning fortune or good luck) onto square pieces of paper or fabric.

The students of Nan Chiau were dazzled by the shows. “I hope that I can visit Suzhou in the future and learn more about the city,” one student said.

A young girl performs Kunqu Opera, one of the most long-lasting art forms in China. [Photo/2500sz.com]