A large-scale dance drama, Confucius, presented by the China National Opera and Dance Drama Theater, inaugurated the Chinese Cultural Festival in Australia 2014 on Nov 18. [Photo/Xinhua]

A large-scale dance drama, Confucius, presented by the China National Opera and Dance Drama Theater, inaugurated the Chinese Cultural Festival in Australia 2014 on Nov 18. The drama reproduced scenes of Confucius touring various kingdoms and running into various snags. The turbulent days, fatuous kings and treacherous court officials all keep Confucius from fulfilling his political ambitions. The cliff-hanger plots, added with the imposing music, elaborate costumes, and dreamlike dances, took the audience back to 2,000 years ago and exposed them to the splendor of Confucian thoughts. The drama was well received by local audiences with fits of thunderous applause.

Another highlight at the opening ceremony was the Chinese traditional tea ceremony, which attracted a great many attendees. Other activities, including a folk dance drama, pop and folk music concert, golf tournament, tea expo and business forum, will be presented to audiences in Sydney and Hobart from Nov 18-Dec 12.

The Chinese Cultural Festival in Australia 2014 is co-hosted by the China International Culture Association, Chinese Culture Promotion Society and Ausfeng Group. Coming as the Chinese President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to Australia, the event aims to deepen the friendship and promote the mutual understanding between the two countries.

The festival will run for two weeks, with both traditional and modern culture involved, and both Chinese and western culture presented. It will be a great cultural feast for local audiences and a bridge to connect the Chinese and Australian people.