Local performers to impress at Lantern Festival

Local performers ready to impress at Lantern Festival

Talented Aucklanders are preparing to perform everything from Beijing Opera to pop songs at the three night Asia 2000 Lantern Festival to be held in Albert Park 14 - 16 February.

"Auckland's Chinese community has participated enthusiastically in the Lantern Festival since it began in 2000," said Asia 2000 cultural programme manager, Jennifer King. "This year we'll see a huge wealth of talent including an oriental fashion show, folk singing, traditional Chinese children's songs and dances, fortune-telling and calligraphy."

The local performers will be joined by two acts from China, a traditional shadow puppet show, one of China's most ancient art forms; and the stunning Lotus Lantern Dragon Dance, which is being performed for the first time outside China.

The Lantern Festival, which marks the end of Chinese New Year celebrations, will be held in Auckland's Albert Park from 5pm to 10.30pm on 14 - 16 February 2003. Entrance to the Festival, and all the entertainment, is free.

Central Parking in Chancery Street is staying open until midnight for the three nights of the Lantern Festival. This will cost a flat $5.00 on the Friday and $2.00 an hour in the weekend up to a maximum of $7.00 (on condition that the vehicle leaves by midnight on the day).

The Lantern Festival is organised by Asia 2000 in partnership with Auckland City. HSBC is the Festival's core sponsor, supported by AIA, Lee Kum Kee, Sky City Auckland, Telecom/One Card, MORE FM Auckland, Cathay Pacific, COSCO (New Zealand) Ltd, Triangle Television and Golden Raindrop Chinese TV.

Check out Lantern Festival information, including more information on the performers, on www.asia2000.org.nz or http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/lantern.

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