A dramatic performance of a traditional Chinese folktale and a glamorous fashion show of Chinese evening wear are just two of the highlights planned for the bi-annual event, China Night, which returns to High School South on Friday, April 30. The evening will showcase a wide range of Chinese culture, including songs, dances, theater, and Chinese food. This year’s event celebrates the new Chinese year — the Year of the Monkey. Included in the ticket price ($15 and $10) is a boxed Chinese dinner. Beverages and desserts will also be available.
Now in its 14th year, China Night provides both education and entertainment through Chinese cultural activities and performances. Festivities are presented by WW-P students in grades 4 through 12. Participants and performers represent all the students of all the district schools where Chinese is taught, including both high schools and both middle schools.
On the evening’s program is a dramatic performance of the Monkey King, based on an adaptation of a Chinese folk tale, and a fashion show of high school girls modeling traditional and modern Chinese evening wear. Students will perform traditional Chinese dances, as well as more modern style dancing, and a girls chorus and a boys chorus present famous Chinese popular songs. The program also includes performances on traditional Chinese musical instruments.
A number of local dignitaries will be in attendance including West Windsor Mayor Shing-fu Hseuh, Plainsboro Mayor Pete Cantu, members of both Town Councils, and newly-elected Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes.
More than 250 students participate in the Chinese language program with many having had no prior exposure to the language. Wei-ling Wu founded the program in 1987 with only 17 students and continues to lead the program, coordinate China Night, and has led student trips to China.
The event is produced by the China Night Parent Committee, Department of World Languages, Chinese classes, and the Chinese Club.
China Night, High School South, Clarksville Road, West Windsor, Friday, April 30, 7 p.m. $15 center orchestra; $10 all other seats. 609-716-5000.
