Hundreds of people from different backgrounds and nationalities gathered at Goldsmiths, University of London last night to celebrate the Chinese lunar New Year.

The event, organized by Goldsmiths’ Confucius Institute, included a total of 14 performances. Most were performed in traditional Chinese style, such as the Chinese Group Dance in which performers mimic a lion’s movements, dressed in a special costume, in a dance intended to bring good luck and fortune.

Pic: Goldsmiths Confucius Institute

A new and refreshing experience for the audience was Yu Zhou Chang Wan. This combines two forms of martial arts with more gentle Tai chi, accompanied by music from a Chinese zither instrument.

Pic: Goldsmiths Confucius Institute

The audience was treated to a thrilling performance by a group of Kung Fu masters. Kung Fu is a symbol of Chinese culture and one of the most famous forms of martial arts in the world. It was made famous by Kung Fu legend and movie star, Bruce Lee.

Pic: Goldsmiths Confucius Institute

Chinese classical dance Qin Wang Dian Bing represents hundreds of terracotta warrior sculptures portraying Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China.

Pic: Goldsmiths Confucius Institute

The celebration provided interactive activities for everyone which included making New Year decorations, taking pictures of people dressed in Chinese costumes and learning how to play Jianzi, a popular Chinese game.

Pic: Goldsmiths Confucius Institute

Confucius Institute director Annie Guo who organized the event, spoke enthusiastically about the reasons why the Chinese celebrate the lunar new year and added: “It is an opportunity for people around the world to know Chinese culture.”

Pic: Goldsmiths Confucius Institute