The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) students from the Drama and Production Studies Programme, were invited for the first time to participate in the 11th China International Folk Arts Festival, at Hohhot, Inner Mongolia autonomous region, from 23 to 29 August 2019. Under the recommendation of the DUT Confucius Institute (CI), 18 students and two staff members represented DUT, showcasing traditional Zulu dances to the Chinese audience, who were deeply impressed by the amalgamation of the various cultures.

The China International Folk Arts Festival, founded in 1990, is held every three years, and is the only large-scale international folk arts festival in China, approved by the State Council and sponsored by the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles. This year’s festival, saw 300 artists from 13 countries participate under the theme of promoting and showcasing the richness and diversity of folk art.

Two Zulu dances, Indlamu and Ingoma, which reflected the South African culture, history and national beliefs of the ancient Zulu people, formed part of the opening ceremony and dances such as Umzansi and the Gumboots dance, reflecting the daily life and customs of the South African people, were performed at the closing ceremony.

Speaking more on the event, Frank WU, the Co-Dean of the Confucius Institute of DUT, said: “The world will be a harmonious place if people appreciate their own beauty and that of others, and work together to create beauty in the world.” He also added that is the reason why the CI at DUT holds various cultural exchanges every year to promote the friendly exchanges and mutual understanding between China and Africa.

Pictured: DUT Drama students showcasing traditional Zulu dances at the 11th China International Folk Arts Festival.

Frank WU