Guests and performers pose for a group photo. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_fbf18055153e]

The 2025 Happy Chinese New Year cross-national gala took center stage on Jan 18 at the J&J Auditorium in Mauritius – the island nation in the Indian Ocean, off the southeastern coast of Africa.

Jointly hosted by China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Mauritius Ministry of Arts and Culture and the Chinese Embassy in Mauritius, the event marked the start of this year's festivities.

Mauritian President Dharambeer Gokhool and Vice-President Jean Yvan Robert Hungley joined an audience of 1,500 to enjoy a vibrant cultural extravaganza presented by the Hangzhou Opera and Dance Drama Theater.

The performance features traditional Chinese dance, acrobatics, magic and musical ensembles. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_fbf18055153e]

The performance featured traditional Chinese dance, acrobatics, magic and musical ensembles – filling the stage with the festive spirit of the Chinese New Year. Highlights included the opening dance Happy Chinese New Year, acrobatic performance Lotus Charm and magical act Miracle. Chinese classics such as Butterfly Lovers and Pipa Melody enthralled folks with their rich cultural essence, while the Silk Road Melody transported viewers to the historical Silk Road era. A special performance of the Thousand-Hand Guanyin by the Mauritius Chinese Cultural Center's dance troupe added a local collaborative touch.

Mauritian Minister of Arts and Culture Mahendra Gondeea emphasized that Chinese New Year, a national holiday in Mauritius, is a bridge for cultural exchanges and is a testament to the deep friendship between the two nations.

Spectators expressed their delight, with local Chinese families calling the gala a cherished tradition.

The event also featured cultural promotions like the Chinese New Year Practices video, a Jiangxi tourism exhibit and brochures highlighting Silk Road and UNESCO heritage sites, leaving participants with lasting memories.

More fun is had on stage during the performance. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_fbf18055153e]