Muscat hosts dazzling 'China Night' show in latest cultural exchange

A captivating "China Night" concert was staged on Friday at the Royal Opera House Muscat, Oman. Presented by China's National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), the event showcased a rich array of Chinese musical works, offering the Omani audience a unique opportunity to experience the elegance and cultural depth of China.

Orchestrated by NCPA, the event featured renowned Chinese violinist Huang Mengla alongside celebrated baritone Liao Changyong, soprano Xu Jingjing, and bass Guan Zhijing.

The concert opened with a captivating performance by violinist Huang Mengla, accompanied by the Italian Cagliari Lyric Opera Orchestra. Together, they delivered a stirring rendition of Zhao Jiping's Violin Concerto No. 1. Huang's expressive interpretation of the piece, with its poignant melodies intertwined with the symphonic richness of the orchestra, earned enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Reflecting on the concert, Huang said the aim was to foster deeper artistic and cultural exchanges. "We have brought Chinese culture, art and music here to Oman, and I hope to learn more about the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Oman and the Middle East," he told CGTN. "I believe there will be a wonderful resonance between our cultures."

Following Huang's violin performance, Chinese vocalists delivered a powerful selection of traditional Chinese folk and art songs, including "The Grasslands of My Father," "The River of My Mother," "When Will the Sophora Flowers Bloom," and "Three Wishes of a Rose," and four other works.

The NCPA Chorus also performed selections from "The Ballad of the Canal," including "We Are the Waters of the Canal," further adding to the cultural depth of the concert. The evening culminated in a heartfelt encore performance of "Auld Lang Syne," with all the artists joining in.

In an interview with CGTN, Liao Changyong expressed his hope for more cultural exchanges, "The collaboration between the NCPA and the Royal Opera House Muscat will undoubtedly write a new chapter in China-Oman friendship. Through music, we can strengthen mutual trust, friendship, and understanding. Music is truly magical — it connects people's hearts and fosters emotional exchange."

As one of the Middle East's premier cultural institutions, the Royal Opera House Muscat has become a global hub for artistic exchange. Alongside the "China Night" concert, the NCPA also staged Verdi's "Un Ballo in Maschera" on Thursday and Saturday at the Royal Opera House as part of the opening of the 2024/25 season, marking the beginning of another exciting year of performances.