X Star Production Brings “The Spirit of the Great Wall” to the UK, Showcasing the Power of Chinese Original Arts

Edinburgh, Cambridge, London — August 2024 — In a spectacular display of Chinese artistic excellence, X Star Production, together with the Jilin Province International Cultural Exchange Centre Arts Troupe, successfully presented the large-scale variety show The Spirit of the Great Wall across the UK, including performances in Edinburgh, Cambridge, and London. Supported by the National Arts Fund of China, this ten-day cultural tour demonstrated the richness of Chinese traditional arts and the beauty of Eastern aesthetics to international audiences.

On August 11, 25 troupe members embarked on a nearly 10,000 km journey from Beijing to Edinburgh, carrying over 50 pieces of costumes, props, and makeup equipment. Arriving the following day, the troupe immediately took to the Royal Mile for a street showcase, captivating tourists and local audiences alike.

The delegation was warmly received by Lezley Marion Cameron, Deputy Lord Provost of Edinburgh, highlighting the UK city’s commitment to international cultural exchange.

Winnie (left), Lezley Marion Cameron, Deputy Lord Provost of Edinburgh (centre), and Wendy, X Star Production representatives (right)

A Stunning Artistic Showcase

The Spirit of the Great Wall featured a dazzling mix of Chinese traditional and contemporary arts, including:

• National music ensembles and percussion performances

• Peking Opera excerpts

• Acrobatics and martial arts demonstrations

• Folk dances and ethnic repertoire such as Coral Ode, White Horse Dance, and Jasmine Flower

Audiences were enthralled by the vibrant colours, intricate costumes, and masterful performances. From the opening drum ensemble to elegant dance sequences, each act reflected the depth of Chinese cultural heritage while engaging international spectators in a shared aesthetic experience.

Local and overseas audiences alike expressed admiration, with performances consistently sold out and repeated applause marking the tour’s success. Many spectators even followed the troupe to subsequent cities to witness additional performances.

Cultural Exchange Beyond the Stage

Beyond performances, the troupe engaged in a variety of cultural activities, including interactive markets showcasing traditional crafts, shadow puppetry, embroidery, and Sichuan face-changing, as well as tourism promotion for Jilin Province. Local dignitaries, including representatives from the Chinese Embassy, Edinburgh City Council, and educational institutions, attended performances and cultural events, praising the troupe’s contribution to cultural exchange and international friendship.

The tour also attracted social media attention, with international audiences and Chinese expatriates sharing photos, videos, and reflections online, celebrating the immersive experience of Chinese art abroad.