January 14, 2009

Christine Gregoire, divine performing arts, chinese new year spectacular

Christine Gregoire, Governor of Washington State, was among several governmental dignitaries from around the state to welcome Divine Performing Arts to Seattle

(Clearwisdom.net) Christine Gregoire, Governor of Washington State, was among several governmental dignitaries from around the state to welcome Divine Performing Arts (DPA) to Seattle just in time for its performance at the Paramount Theatre on January 18.

DPA's Chinese New Year Spectacular brings to the Emerald City a magnificent combination of uplifting song, colorful dance, and an aura of celebration and festivity in a show that will take place just one week before the Lunar New Year, which falls on January 26.

"I am delighted to welcome you to the historic Paramount Theatre and the much anticipated performance of the Divine Performing Arts Chinese Spectacular," wrote Ms. Gregoire in a greeting to DPA and the Chinese New Year Spectacular.

New York-based DPA strives to be a leader in bringing traditional Chinese culture to all areas of the globe, not only to where the Chinese Diasporas have settled but also to where Chinese culture is unknown or barely recognized.

To accomplish that mission, DPA has embarked on a world tour to over 20 countries, including dozens of cities in the United States.

"Washington State prides itself on having a thriving arts community, as well as audiences that truly appreciate the beauty of our diversity. The Chinese Spectacular celebrates China's rich culture and history through the exquisite artistry of music and dance," Ms. Gregoire said.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 20,000 ethnic Chinese live in Seattle, and over 55,000 Chinese-Americans reside in surrounding King County. As a result, Seattle and its suburbs share deep roots in the Chinese community.

Paull Shin, Divine Performing Arts

Washington State Senator Paull Shin, at the Divine Performing Arts performance last year. (Abraham Thompson/The Epoch Times)

DPA's one-of-a-kind shows have attracted the attention of ethnic Chinese and non-Chinese alike. With vibrant animated backdrops, colorful hand-sewn costumes, and originally choreographed dances that embody all aspects of Chinese culture, the Chinese New Year Spectacular transforms 5,000 years of Chinese history into an educational and awe-inspiring show.

"The show is leading a cultural renaissance of authentic Chinese culture and I am honored to lend my support," wrote Washington State Senator Paull Shin.

"I am expecting a fabulous evening that is both inspirational and exciting. I hope we can appreciate the traditions of such a rich culture as we glimpse the legends and ideals that have shaped Chinese history. The Chinese cultural heritage is an important part of our state and this event lends all of us an opportunity to reflect on our past and future. In celebrating the arts, we recognize the grace and imagination of human dignity. Tonight's show will not be forgotten."

Adam Kline, Mr. Shin's colleague in the State Senate, also shared his greetings with DPA and the Spectacular.

"Seattle welcomes artists from all over the world whose art expresses the principles on which their culture is based. I look forward to seeing in this performance a manifestation of Zhen, Shan, and Ren, (Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance) and am glad to have the opportunity to experience something of the culture that holds these virtues in high esteem. I believe that all of us who attend will be inspired by the performances of this internationally acclaimed troupe as they help us to usher in the Year of the Ox."

As DPA's Seattle show nears, salutations from government officials have poured in, including from Congressmen Jim McDermott and Jay Inslee of Washington State, U.S. Senator Patty Murray, Seattle City Councilmember Tom Rasmussen, King County Councilmember Larry Phillipps, and several others. For a complete list and for complete greetings from each official, please visit www.divineshows.com/vipgreetings?s=125

For a preview of the Divine Performing Arts presentation of the Chinese New Year Spectacular at Paramount Theatre in Seattle, please visit Celebrate a 'Spectacular' Chinese New Year .