Mid-Autumn Celebration 2024: The Moon Shines On Us All

Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for reflection, for contemplation and the remembrance of those whom we value but who may be far away. We all live in the light of the Earth-lit moon, wherever we are, and in this spirit of profound sharing we would like you to join us in a wonderful evening of poetry, music and dance inspired by our theme: The Moon Shines On Us All.

Date: 13 September 2024

Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm 

Venue: Firth Hall, Firth Court Western Bank Sheffield S10 2TN

Cost: FREE! 

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Venue: Firth Hall

We’re very lucky to be able to stage our celebration in Firth Hall. Set in the stunning Edwardian Grade II listed Firth Court, Firth Hall is a beautiful 380-seater recital hall with a spacious stage. With its high vaulted ceiling, large leaded windows and oak panelling the Hall lends itself perfectly to a musical setting.

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Pre-Show and Mooncakes - 7pm - 7:30pm

Confucius Institute Chinese Cultural Workshops and Exhibitions

The Sheffield Confucius Institute will deliver a range of engaging activities exploring Chinese culture through arts and activities stalls before the main show. Want to try your hand at calligraphy, Chinese painting or Chinese paper cutting? Our teachers, volunteers and representatives will all be on hand to show you the ropes!

What to expect...

Chinese calligraphy

Chinese calligraphy is an ancient and beautiful art form. With a style unique to Chinese characters, Chinese calligraphy uses different types of strokes created in a specific order to create words.

Our teachers will also explain the meaning of different characters and you’ll learn how to write names and popular Chinese sayings and expressions, creating pieces to take home with you.

All materials will be provided.

Chinese Painting

Chinese painting, known as "Guóhuà," is a venerable art form that dates back to the Neolithic age. It's a dance of subtlety and strength. Unlike Western painting, it's not just about replicating the world on paper but about capturing its essence, its spirit.

In this art form, artists use brushes, ink, and rice paper or silk to create landscapes, floral scenes, and portrayals of animals that are more than just depictions; they are expressions of the artist's inner world, philosophical insights, and a deep connection with nature.

Chinese Paper Cutting 

This fun and inclusive activity can be enjoyed by children and adults alike - come and try your hand with our unique paper cutting stall and make yourself or a friend a little gift! 

Mooncakes

It will be our pleasure to gift all guests with mooncakes brought specifically for this event! Guests will be fully immersed in the festival by trying this sweet and delicious, traditional pastry treat. 

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Main Show - 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Music and Performances

The Firth Hall stage will be filled with wonderful musical acts and performances, both solo and with ensemble. Performances will be inspired entirely by classical and modern Chinese music and dance, with dance routines performed by the Wanlin Academy of Dance. 

Wanlin Dance Academy

The Wanlin Academy was Founded in 2012 and is renowned for their beautiful costumes and choreography, the Wanlin Academy dancers will be gracing the event with a spectacular traditional dance performance. The Academy runs courses in Sheffield, teaching the graceful art of Chinese classical and folk dance, and offers lessons at all levels for adults and children, as well as providing workshops and stage performances upon request.

Guzheng and Guqin Performances

There will be special performances of the beautiful and ancient guzheng and guqin instruments throughout the show. Each performance will feature traditional songs and added surprises, stay tuned for our next update which will feature a dedicated setlist!  

Mid Autumn Festival and Presentation

Our teachers will deliver an engaging presentation about the Mid-Autumn Festival , about its history and significance in Chinese society and around the world. A presentation which will leave attendees feeling informed and perhaps a little inspired!

Poetry Reading and Performance

Traditional Chinese poetry that celebrates the festival and the moon will be recited along with a modern twist. The music and expressiveness behind the poetry and its recitation, particularly in the austere settings of Firth Hall, will be truly stunning and must not be missed! 

Date: 13 September 2024

Time: 7pm - 9pm 

Location: Firth Hall, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN

FREE!

Contact: confucius@sheffield.ac.uk