Solihull says ‘Gung Hei Fat Choi’ (Happy New Year)
From Press Office on 16 February 2010
Solihull gave the Year of the Tiger a roaring start on Saturday, 13 February, with a full day of activities in Mell Square, organised by Solihull Council, Mell Square, BRMB and the Chinese community.
The day included two performances of the elaborate dragon and lion dance, Tai Chi and Kung Fu demonstrations and a traditional flower umbrella dance, as well as Chinese music, food and stalls selling traditional New Year gifts.
The Mayor and Mayoress of Solihull entered the square on a rickshaw and signalled the beginning of the celebrations by opening the dragon’s eye.
The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Norman Davies said: “It has been a joy to celebrate this festival and learn more about the culture and traditions of Chinese New Year. This is one of the growing number of event we have in Solihull and I think all who attended will agree it was a great day of amazing performances and entertainment.
“I would like to thank everyone who has made this event such a success, particularly Michael Chan and Councillor John Reeve. I am already looking forward to what next year will bring.”
An exhibition is also running at Solihull Arts Complex, G2, until 22 February, in celebration of Chinese New Year. Innovation in Abstraction by Professor Hai Shuet Yeung MBE combines British and Chinese cultures in this collection of unique paintings.
For media enquiries please contact Olivia White 0121 704 8373
Email: owhite@solihull.gov.uk