Epoch Times Staff

Jan 18, 2009

PORTLAND, Ore.-- Elected officials throughout Oregon are sending their greetings and wishes for a successful inaugural run of the Divine Performing Arts (DPA) Chinese New Year Spectacular in Portland, starting Jan. 20.

Divine Performing Arts (DPA) will bring to the 'City of Roses' a magnificent celebration of China's 5,000-year-old culture through classical dance, music, and an atmosphere of festivity in a show inspired by the true, divinely bestowed culture of humankind.

Theodore Kulongoski, Governor of Oregon State, was among several governmental leaders from around the state to welcome Divine Performing Arts for its performance at the Keller Auditorium on January 20--just six days before the Lunar New Year.

Staged by a New York-based non-profit company, DPA's Chinese New Year Spectacular has become a global cultural phenomenon since its debut in 2004.

In his congratulatory letter, Governor Kulongoski wrote: "This is a memorable occasion, reflecting the ancient heritage and culture celebrating the Chinese New Year. The history of Chinese culture is honored through the Divine Performing Arts dancers, musicians, composers and choreographers. Their performance commemorates the beauty and importance of traditional Chinese values, giving Oregonians the opportunity to experience Chinese beliefs and customs."

In its 2008 season, Divine Performing Arts performed over 200 shows in 70 cities on four continents, enchanting more than 600,000 audience members on some of the world's most prestigious stages, such as New York's Radio City Music Hall and Paris' Le Palais des Congres.

U.S. Congress members also showed their support for the show in letters or certificates of recognition.

"Combining beautiful artistry and tremendous skill," wrote David Wu, Member of Congress, in his congratulatory letter. "The Chinese New Year Spectacular is sure to entertain, enrich, and inspire. There is no better way to ring in the New Year than with this fantastic event in our great city of Portland."

His colleague Earl Blumenauer, Member of Congress from Oregon, joined in Mr. Wu's greetings: "We are proud to host this performance here in Portland which celebrates the beauty of Chinese culture and its traditions. The talent and artistry of the Chinese New Year Spectacular are sure to be cherished by those in attendance."

Oregon State senators Ginny Burdick and Margaret Carter also extended a welcome to the show.

Senator Carter wrote in her letter that she is "delighted to see this exquisite presentation performed in our community. Portland and Oregon boast a number of exceptional attractions in the Chinese tradition. In addition to the Portland Classical Garden ... Oregon has an unparalleled national historic site... This 140-year-old museum is a rare glimpse into the culture and life of the Chinese overseas community in the early days after Oregon statehood in 1859."

She also stated that "as a gateway to the Pacific Rim, Portland and Oregon have deep historical roots and ties to China and the Far East, to the people of Taiwan and the Mainland, and to the overseas community worldwide."

Bill Bradbury, Secretary of Oregon State, extended his "warm and heartfelt greetings from the Pacific Northwest to everyone attending the Chinese New Year Spectacular in Portland."

Bill Bradbury, Secretary of Oregon State, extended his "warm and heartfelt greetings from the Pacific Northwest to everyone attending the Chinese New Year Spectacular in Portland. This special occasion will no doubt create memories lasting a lifetime."

Mayor of Wilsonville, OR, Charlotte Lehan, also wrote a letter welcoming the show, saying: "It is an honor and a privilege to welcome the Divine Performing Arts Chinese Spectacular to Portland's Keller Auditorium. It is a real treat for our citizens to witness such an amazing and talented group of performers.

"The performance provides a taste of China's splendid and discerning culture and accentuates the incredible Chinese dancers and musicians. It is truly a sight to see and a special evening of entertainment for all ages. Those who attend this performance will no doubt come away with a better understanding of the Chinese culture and the incredible effort that goes into a show of this class and stature."

Rob Drake, Mayor of Beaverton, was delighted to welcome the much-anticipated performance of Divine Performing Arts. "The Portland-Metro area 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. I applaud the producers, performers and all of those behind the scenes who make each performance a marvel of talent and skill. Performing arts lovers across our state are sure to be captivated by the magic of this sensational show."

As the Portland show nears, DPA is still receiving welcoming letters from government officials, including Oregon State Representative John Lim; Mayor of Canby City, Melody Thompson; Mayor of City of Gresham, Shane T. Bemis; and the Oregon Commission on Asian Affairs.

To read the complete greetings from each official, please visit http://www.divineshows.com/vipgreetings?

Source: http://en.epochtimes.com/n2/content/view/10552/