The Confucius Institute at T.A. Marryshow Community College held a grand and culturally rich Spring Festival Gala on January 22. In October 2025, the Confucius Institute will celebrate its 10th anniversary. This year’s gala was themed “A Decade of Shared Spring, A Time of Cultural Fusion,” showcasing traditional Chinese New Year customs, art, and culture alongside local Grenadian cultural performances. The event deepened cultural exchanges and mutual understanding between the two nations, offering Grenadians a unique opportunity to experience the charm of Chinese New Year while laying a cultural foundation for China-Grenada friendship and cooperation.
Among the attendees were Mr. Andrew Abraham, Principal of T.A. Marryshow Community College, senior management team of TAMCC, Jiang Yan, Director of Bilateral Affairs at the Chinese Embassy in Grenada, teachers and students of the Confucius Institute and their families, performers from the Ningbo Art Troupe, the China Agricultural Technical Cooperation team in Grenada, representatives from the Grenada National Stadium Maintenance Project team, and members of the local Chinese community.
The gala opened with captivating performances by the Ningbo Art Troupe, including dough figurine artistry and a Chinese tea ceremony. Students were thrilled to receive dough figurine gifts, eagerly taking photos with the artists and tea masters. Following a warm welcome by the hosts, Mr. Aaron Gay and Ms. Zhang Xiaoying, the event officially commenced. Mr. Andrew Abraham and Ms. Jiang Yan each delivered heartfelt speeches, wishing the audience a happy Chinese New Year and expressing their appreciation for the Confucius Institute’s contributions to cultural exchange and education, along with hopes for the continued flourishing of China-Grenada relations.
Niu Wanlin introduced the origins and cultural significance of Chinese New Year, distributing candies during the “Traditional Customs of Spring Festival” segment to wish everyone good fortune in the coming year. This interactive activity enhanced the audience’s understanding of the festival’s traditions and auspicious symbolism. Additionally, Mr. Zhang Xiang, General Manager of the Shanghai Baoye Group at the Grenada National Stadium Maintenance Project, demonstrated his calligraphy skills by writing the Chinese character “福” (good fortune) and extended New Year blessings to all present.
The performances that followed were both spectacular and diverse. The Ningbo Art Troupe presented a series of stunning acts, including the elegant dance “Drunken Beauty of Jiangnan”, which depicted the charm of southern China, a mesmerizing magic show, an internal martial arts performance showcasing the power and grace of traditional Chinese kung fu, and a breathtaking face-changing performance by Li Mingliang, which drew enthusiastic applause with its seamless and dynamic transitions.
Grenadian students also shone during the event. The TAMCC Band played “Greater” and ignited the audience’s energy, while Anderson and Jahnique’s heartfelt duet of “Grenada Grenada” left everyone moved. Angelina, Harmoni, Kishuana, and Nana captivated the crowd with their traditional Grenadian folk dance. Meanwhile, TAMCC students sang “Happy Birthday & Up from Here,” a heartfelt tribute to their homeland that resonated deeply with the audience.
As the event neared its conclusion, Confucius Institute teachers, students, and the Ningbo Art Troupe performed the festive song “Happy New Year,” with children’s adorable and lively participation adding to the joyous atmosphere. The evening reached its climax with a Tai Chi performance by Master David, whose fluid movements and exceptional skills vividly embodied the profound essence of Chinese martial arts, providing a perfect ending to this cultural feast.
After the performances, Reeyana, an outstanding student of the Confucius Institute, shared her unforgettable experiences participating in last year’s “Chinese Bridge” competition, inspiring students to pursue their Chinese studies with enthusiasm. Finally, Dr. Jiang Fan, the resident Director of the Confucius Institute, gave a closing speech, welcoming the Ningbo Art Troupe and expressing gratitude to TAMCC leadership and the Chinese Embassy for their support and care. Dr. Jiang also extended sincere New Year wishes to all guests.
Following the formal program, attendees enjoyed dumplings and noodles in a relaxed and festive atmosphere, celebrating Chinese New Year together.
This unique gala not only vividly showcased the charm of Chinese New Year culture but also deepened Grenadians’ appreciation and love for Chinese traditions. It further strengthened the cultural bridge between China and Grenada, solidifying the friendship between the two nations.