CGTN highlighted the Spring Festival Gala’s (Chunwan) significance as a unifying event for the global Chinese community, fostering shared emotions and experiences. The article further emphasized the 2025 Gala’s innovative fusion of traditional Chinese culture and cutting-edge technology, creating a unique cultural spectacle.

BEIJING, Jan. 25, 2025 — The 2025 China Media Group (CMG) Spring Festival Gala, a pivotal part of Chinese New Year celebrations, has commenced its final rehearsals. This annual event, known as Chunwan in China, is renowned for its blend of cultural richness and innovative spirit, captivating audiences both domestically and internationally.

Concluding its fourth rehearsal on January 22, the gala finalized its performances and technical aspects. Utilizing advanced AR and VR technologies, the show promises an immersive experience, combining traditional acts – songs, dances, skits, and crosstalk – with interactive elements to engage a wider audience, including younger demographics.

Adding to the celebratory mood, the gala unveiled its official mascot, “Si Sheng Sheng,” a vibrant green snake representing the Year of the Snake. Inspired by traditional Chinese culture, its design features intricate details—spiral patterns from a gilded silver “Ruyi” discovered at Shaanxi’s Famen Temple—symbolizing prosperity. Interwoven vines depicting vitality and flowers like begonia, magnolia, and peony, crafted with exquisite filigree, adorn its body. This design harmoniously blends heritage and artistry, perfectly encapsulating the Spring Festival’s spirit.

A harmonious blend of tradition and modernity

Since its debut in 1983, the Spring Festival Gala has become a cultural cornerstone of Chinese New Year, showcasing the nation’s heritage through performances like operas, folk songs, dances, skits, and crosstalk. This year, while preserving these traditions, the gala embraces modern creative expressions.

The 2025 Gala’s stage design is inspired by the “Ruyi” scepter, a traditional artifact symbolizing fulfilled wishes. This scepter-shaped stage fosters a connection between performers and audience, creating a harmonious atmosphere. Elements of Spring Festival customs, such as paper-cutting, shadow puppetry, and Chinese knots, will be integrated into the show’s visuals, costumes, and lyrics, underscoring cultural authenticity.

Among the notable performances is The Pillars, a song-and-dance act inspired by Beijing’s Central Axis, a recent UNESCO World Heritage Site. This performance celebrates ancient China’s architectural brilliance, merging historical themes with stunning visual effects. Another highlight, Beauty by the Water, uniquely combines ballet and traditional Chinese dance to represent the grace and fluidity of water, set to the melody of At the Waterside.

In recent years, the Spring Festival Gala has leveraged technological advancements to revitalize traditional art forms. The 2025 Gala will continue this trend: Traditional art forms, including Peking Opera and Henan Opera, will be enhanced with modern stage effects and multimedia; digital interactivity and holographic projections will transform folk dances and songs into multi-dimensional experiences. This fusion of technology and culture not only rejuvenates traditional art but also strengthens the audience’s connection to China’s cultural heritage.

A shared emotional experience for the Chinese people

For millions of Chinese families, the Spring Festival Gala is more than just a television program—it’s a cherished New Year tradition. Watching the gala together symbolizes unity, warmth, and the joy of family reunions. This emotional connection transcends geographical boundaries, uniting families worldwide.

Beyond familial bonds, the gala reflects societal changes and issues through its humorous skits and crosstalk, prompting both laughter and reflection. The 2025 Gala will continue this tradition, providing insights into contemporary social themes while capturing the spirit of the times.

The gala also showcases China’s cultural diversity, highlighting regional traditions and art forms that foster a shared sense of pride and belonging. Through its blend of festive cheer, cultural celebration, and innovative artistry, the Spring Festival Gala remains a powerful symbol of Chinese unity and cultural identity.

This year’s event promises to be a vibrant celebration of the past and an exciting glimpse into the future, solidifying the gala’s role as a bridge between tradition and modernity, and a heartfelt connection among Chinese people worldwide.

For more information, please click:

CONTACT: Contact: cgtn@cgtn.com

“`