Veliko Tarnovo was immersed in the magic of Chinese culture with the performance titled "Chinese Language and Culture – The Treasures Along the Silk Road."
On the evening of April 24, 2025, the Grand Hall of the Veliko Tarnovo Municipality was filled with the colors, sounds, and spirit of the Far East. The festive event, under the motto "Chinese Language and Culture – The Treasures Along the Silk Road," was organized by the Confucius Institute at St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo to mark UN Chinese Language Day and to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, a project aimed at fostering intercultural dialogue and cooperation between China and the countries along the ancient Silk Road.
The performance featured artists from China’s Hebei Province, who captivated the audience with their passion and enthusiasm, unveiling the rich heritage of traditional Chinese culture. In front of a packed hall, the young talents impressed with dazzling dance performances and masterful renditions of classical Chinese music. A particularly moving moment was the performance of the iconic Bulgarian song "A Bulgarian Rose," interpreted with deep emotion by the Chinese performers.
The stage also welcomed first and second-grade students from "St. Patriarch Evtimiy" Primary School in Veliko Tarnovo, who are currently studying Chinese. The young children charmed the audience with their songs in Chinese and delightful choreography. Also memorable were the performances by volunteer teachers from the Confucius Institute at the university, who showcased the grace of traditional Chinese dance and the harmony of martial arts. The Chinese troupe further engaged the audience through interactive segments and games, creating a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere throughout the evening.
Among the official guests at the event were Mr. Neyko Genchev – Deputy Mayor of Veliko Tarnovo Municipality, Ms. Jing Wei – Deputy Executive Director of the Center for Language Education and Cooperation under China’s Ministry of Education (CLEC), Mr. Yang Tian – Head of the Education Department at the Embassy of the PRC in Bulgaria, Dr. Mao Yencheng – Deputy Director of the Planning Department at CLEC, Ms. Zhang Huijun – Deputy Director of the Culture Department at CLEC, Prof. Dr. Plamen Legkostup – Rector of Veliko Tarnovo University (2007–2015) and Honorary Chairman of the Confucius Institute Board, Mr. Ivan Tsarov – Director of the Regional Museum of History in Veliko Tarnovo, Ms. Nelina Tsarova – Director of the Culture Directorate at the Veliko Tarnovo Municipality, Assoc. Prof. Iskra Mandova, PhD, and Prof. Dong Yuangxin – Directors of the Confucius Institute at UVT.
This event stood as a vivid example of how intercultural dialogue can inspire younger generations, and how art serves as a bridge between nations, a bridge of collaboration, mutual respect, and friendship.