The “Rhythm of Shandong – Exhibition Show of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Shandong Province” brought a slice of Chinese culture to New Pazar, Serbia, in a spectacular display of traditional performances. Held on Sunday, this 2023 event marked a cultural celebration that transcended geographical boundaries, showcasing the rich and diverse heritage of East China’s Shandong Province.
More than 100 guests, including members from the Chinese Business Association in Serbia, local Chinese residents, and Serbian citizens, were in attendance. The exhibition featured an array of traditional performances that captivated the audience, including ethnic dances, Shandong clapper operas, acrobatics, and folk songs. These artistic expressions not only entertained but also offered a glimpse into the profound cultural practices of the Qilu civilization, which has evolved over centuries in Shandong.
Notable attendees included Liu Binhua, director of the overseas Chinese affairs office of the Shandong provincial people’s government, and Hosein Memić, minister of Tourism and Youth of Serbia. Liu expressed gratitude for Memić’s presence and underscored the event’s significance in showcasing the diverse intangible cultural heritage of Shandong. He emphasized the exhibition’s role in promoting the traditions of Chinese culture and fostering cultural exchange. Liu also extended an invitation to Minister Memić to visit Shandong with a delegation, aiming to strengthen collaboration between the two regions in various fields.
Minister Memić, in his address, appreciated the efforts of the Shandong delegation in bringing this cultural feast to Serbia. He lauded the splendid showcase of intangible cultural heritage and expressed hope that such cultural exchanges would deepen the ties between Shandong and Serbia.
The exhibition is part of an overseas initiative led by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Shandong Provincial People’s Government. This initiative focuses on leveraging the strengths of the overseas Chinese community to promote Chinese culture globally. Since its inception in 2016, the exhibition has successfully been hosted in over ten countries, sharing the stories and culture of China, and particularly Shandong, with the world. It has played a crucial role in enhancing the influence and appeal of Chinese and Qilu culture internationally.
Following the event in New Pazar, the Shandong delegation is scheduled to continue its international tour, with upcoming exhibitions planned in Germany and Italy. These events not only serve as a platform for cultural exchange but also strengthen diplomatic relations, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of Chinese heritage and traditions across the globe. The “Rhythm of Shandong” exhibition is a testament to the power of cultural diplomacy in building bridges between nations and peoples through the universal language of art and heritage.
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