Hats off to the Rats as year begins

Feb 11 2008 by Chris Robinson, The Journal

A KALEIDOSCOPE of colour was on show in the North-East as Chinese New Year celebrations got under way yesterday.

Hundreds turned out to Newcastle’s Stowell Street to watch traditional dragons dancing to ceremonial music.

Celebrations marked the Year of the Rat across the region yesterday as communities came together for a taste of the orient.

Banging drums were followed by the presence of the dragon in a performance by members of Edmund Ng’s Kung Fu Club.

Oriental firecrackers wowed the crowds as celebrations continued into the afternoon.

Families were also entertained by Chinese entertainment including magic and acrobatics as well as martial arts displays and juggling.

Julie-Ann Ross, 40, a nurse, from Jesmond, Newcastle was watching the display with four-year-old daughter Abbie.

She said: “It was fabulous. It’s just really nice, my daughter is four and she has been learning about it at school and making Chinese dragons.

“I think it’s really important for everyone to see something like this, particularly for the children so they can see different communities and their culture.

“It’s a big celebration for the Chinese community just like New Year’s celebrations are to everyone.”

Jo Smith, 23, a student from Gateshead, added: “I thought it was interesting, I’ve never seen anything like this before and we thought it would be interesting to come along.

“It’s nice to see how different cultures celebrate New Year. Our New Year seems a little under-celebrated after looking at this.”

Activities have been on-going throughout the week. Dozens turned out in Sunderland on Tuesday for a Tai Chi event involving children and students. There was also a New Year’s party at the Stadium of Light.

Michael Shek, 34, manager of restaurant China Town Express, Newcaslte, said the traditional celebrations are to bring both prosperity and luck throughout the year.

He said: “It was a good display and a good crowd too.

“Each display represents something different. It was nice to see people watching.

“The celebration is quite important because it brings more prosperity and more luck for the new year.”

Matty Chan, chairman of the Festivity Group, added: “Each year hundreds of families enjoy a great day out celebrating what is one of the most colourful events in Chinese culture. We are very grateful to all of our supporters who make this festival an ongoing success, and enable the event to expand and improve year on year.”