Members of the Zhejiang University Wenqin Art Troupe perform.
Camera IconMembers of the Zhejiang University Wenqin Art Troupe perform. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Penrhos College to host acclaimed Zhejiang University Wenqin Art Troupe

Aaron CorlettSouthern Gazette

The troupe is holding workshops around WA before the performance at the school on February 20.

The visit, which celebrates 30 years of friendship between WA and Zhejiang Province, includes workshops in 12 metropolitan schools.

WA students will have the chance to talk to performers about their craft, and interpreters will be available to explain the stories, music, instruments and costumes.

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The troupe, based in Zhejiang’s capital Hangzhou, was brought to Perth in 2016 by the Confucius Institute at UWA – a not-for-profit cultural organisation dedicated to making Chinese language, art and culture accessible to everyone.

“They were a big hit last year, and we are thrilled to bring them back for an even more spectacular line-up,” Confucius Institute director Dr Xianlin Song said.

The troupe was founded in 2001 and has performed at the UN Headquarters in the US as well as throughout Europe, Asia and Australia. In September 2016 they performed as part of the G20 Summit program in Hangzhou.

Wenqin’s colourful, high-energy shows combine the best of ancient and modern China.

The ensemble’s highly skilled traditional and contemporary musicians, sing-ers, dancers and martial artists will present a diverse program with introductions and explanations in English.

The Wenqin troupe will also be the headline act at the forthcoming Australia China Business Council gala dinner on February 16 at Crown Perth.

“We are about building bridges and creating connections,” Dr Song said.

“Understanding another language and culture and getting to know people from another country is the best way to break down barriers and build a tolerant and inclusive community.”