| James Kon |
MEMBERS of the public were treated to a rare traditional Chinese opera performance by 28 troupe members from Xiamen Siang An Chinese Opera School at Teng Yun Temple on Monday night, as Brunei’s Chinese community celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival.
There was also display of lanterns, part of entries of the lantern competition held at the venue.
Attending the special occasion as guest of honour was Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Ong Tiong Oh and spouse.
Teng Yun Temple Chairman Peng Thing Kheo and the temple’s committee members were also present.
“The committee members of Teng Yun Temple have worked hard to ensure the success of the Chinese opera performance. I’d like to thank the committee for their hard work,” said Peng in his speech. He also welcomed Yang Berhormat Ong and conveyed his festival greetings.
Yang Berhormat Ong, in his speech, expressed his happiness at attending the event, adding that he felt “honoured to be invited by the Teng Yun Temple committee members to the celebration”.
For Hung Qingshui, leader of the Xiamen Siang An Chinese Opera School performing troupe, getting the chance to return to Brunei to perform was a real honour and privilege.
“This is the 11th time that we are here to perform for the Brunei public,” he said.
“There are not many young people who are interested in being part of the Chinese opera performing troupe. Therefore this was a good opportunity to show the Chinese culture of opera to the people of Brunei.”
When asked whether the troupe members miss celebrating the festival back home, he replied, “The people in Brunei have received us very warmly. We feel like this is our second home, so celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival here is not bad.”
Hung said he hopes to raise interest in Chinese opera in the country and teach local children the art if possible.
According to Hung, the Chinese opera performances will continue in Brunei until October 7.
A modern version of a centuries-old harvest ritual, Mid-Autumn Festival is normally celebrated in late September or early October.