China-South Africa Friendship Celebrated at State Theatre Spring Festival
Bapedi, Zulu and Tsonga traditional dance and music was part of the local side of celebrations at the South African State Theatre in Pretoria. South Africa and China celebrated the Chinese New Year Spring Festival, featuring captivating performances and a message of unity.
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The South African State Theatre hosted a vibrant Chinese New Year Spring Festival celebration, marking decades of diplomatic friendship and cultural exchange between China and South Africa.
The event on Friday night opened with the national anthems of the People’s Republic of China and South Africa, symbolising mutual respect and shared values.
Guests were welcomed by Ambassador Wu Peng of the People’s Republic of China, followed by remarks from Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour Jomo Sibiya, and Dr Johnstone Makhubu, Deputy Commissioner for Taxpayer Engagement and Operations at the South African Revenue Service.
South African State Theatre Chief Executive Officer Shane Maja described the celebration as a moment of renewal and shared humanity, emphasising that culture remains one of the most powerful forms of diplomacy.
South African State Theatre's Artistic Director, Aubrey Sekhabi, welcoming guests who included dignitaries from the Chinese Embassy, and expressing gratitude for previous collaborations and artistic exchanges that have enriched the local creative community of Pretoria and beyond.
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Long-standing Relationship
Artistic Director Aubrey Sekhabi reflected on the Theatre’s long-standing relationship with the Chinese Embassy, highlighting previous collaborations and artistic exchanges that have enriched local creative practice.
The packed auditorium witnessed an extraordinary cultural programme featuring artists who travelled from China to perform alongside South African performers. Performances included Chinese classical dance, instrumental ensembles, Zulu and Bapedi traditional dance and collaborative Tsonga choreography that drew enthusiastic applause.
Highlights included a traditional instrumental trio, an engaging mime performance, a visually striking puppet show, and a magical illusion act where a single umbrella multiplied into dozens before the audience’s eyes.
The celebration concluded with vibrant Spring Festival dance performances dressed in symbolic red costumes, as performers shared sweets with the audience in celebration of the New Year. Broadcast live on SAST TV, the event reaffirmed the deepening relationship between China and South Africa through culture and shared prosperity.
Bapedi, Zulu and Tsonga traditional dance and music was part of the local side of celebrations at the South African State Theatre in Pretoria. South Africa and China celebrated the Chinese New Year Spring Festival, featuring captivating performances and a message of unity.
Image: SUPPLIED