Across continents, overseas Chinese communities are preparing elaborate cultural performances to celebrate the Spring Festival, creating a powerful tapestry of tradition and modernity. In Dubai, the rehearsal hall for the 12th Overseas Chinese Spring Festival Gala resonates with harmonious voices blending in emotional renditions of patriotic songs, particularly ‘My Motherland and I’.
The upcoming gala, themed ‘Eternal Brilliance,’ represents one of the largest Spring Festival celebrations organized by overseas Chinese communities worldwide. Featuring a diverse program spanning dance, vocal performances, acrobatics, and instrumental music, the two-hour spectacle showcases distinctive Chinese cultural elements through sophisticated artistic expression.
Since October, over 500 Chinese residents from the United Arab Emirates and numerous other countries, ranging from children to octogenarians, have dedicated their weekends to meticulous rehearsals. This year’s production carries special significance as it coincides with the 90th anniversary of the Long March victory, with the gala’s four-chapter narrative structure designed to echo this historical milestone.
Li Dongxia, the gala’s director for all twelve editions and a 25-year UAE resident, emphasizes the profound connection between national strength and cultural pride. ‘Without the motherland’s prosperity, overseas Chinese cannot hold their heads high with dignity,’ she states, describing the production as ‘a fresh interpretation of the Long March Spirit in the new era.’
The sentiment resonates deeply among performers from 13 different countries, including the UAE, United States, Germany, and South Africa. Veteran participant Lei Yulin, now in his eleventh consecutive year, describes each rehearsal as ‘an expression of longing for the motherland, care for family, and hope for the future.’
From the Gulf region to South Asia and Australia, these celebrations serve as both cultural ambassadors and emotional touchpoints, allowing overseas Chinese to maintain their connection to heritage while sharing China’s story with global audiences through artistic excellence.