Over 2,000 people will attend Sheffield City Hall on Tuesday 24th January to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year with both free and ticketed events.
The Lunar New Year celebration is one of the biggest cultural events in Sheffield. This event is raising money for Sheffield Children’s Hospital and features a wide range of activities, food and performances. The evening kicks off at 5 pm in the BallRoom with a free event before moving to a ticketed show from 7pm in the Irwin Mitchell Oval Hall.
Kelvin Quick, Spokesperson for the event, said: “The Year of the Rabbit is the next Chinese Lunar Year on 22nd January 2023 and the traits of the rabbit are popularity, compassion, and sincerity. There’s no better trait to represent our unified spirit in the coming year and we can’t wait to share this with the wider Sheffield community!
“Join us on 24th January 2023 for an evening of amazing musicians, acrobats, artists and performers, fascinating workshops, delicious food stalls, and a host of other cultural activities.
“As one of the largest multicultural events in Sheffield, this event has always been strongly supported by the city, Sheffield council, the Chinese Embassy and the Chinese Consulate. Every year the gala is attended by senior representatives from across the region, the Chinese Embassy and Consulate who give speeches. This year we are extremely proud to be working with Sheffield Children’s Hospital as our nominated charity.”
The Ball Room will feature musical acts and performances from ensembles and soloists inspired by both classical and modern Chinese music and dance. In this area, there will be a great selection of food and snacks from a huge range of vendors. The Sheffield Confucius Institute will deliver engaging activities exploring Chinese culture through games, arts and activities. There will also be artwork and photography displays including a Year of the Rabbit School art-themed display. This is a great opportunity for families to experience Chinese culture at its best.
The main event begins at 7 pm and the audience will be treated to a spectacular Lion Dance where acrobats use stilts and giant lion costumes to breath-taking effect. Musical performances will include traditional instruments like the pipa (sometimes referred to as the Chinese lute) and feature compositions by renowned classical musicians and singers. Chinese dance routines will be performed by the Wanlin Dance Outfit, there will be traditional sword dancing and the event headliners, The Lion Dancers, will put on a stunning acrobatic display.
Tickets for the evening show are still available priced at £10 for adults, £8 for students and seniors and £6 for children and are available here.
