Year of the Tiger to begin with a roar

Jan 30 2010 by Phil Doherty, The Journal

NEWCASTLE will be painting the town red when the city’s Chinese community celebrate their New Year.

With red the colour of good luck in China, there will be more than a little splash of the hue in China Town’s streets as lion and dragon dances, firecrackers, martial arts demos and other displays take centre stage to celebrate the Year of the Tiger.

The ever-popular event kicks off in style at the Chinese ceremonial gate at noon on Sunday, February 14, when Edmund Ng’s Choi Lee Fut Kung Fu club give a display of martial arts.

Then the evil spirits will be banished when the lion and unicorn dances wend their way through the streets to bring good luck to the community and city.

The event is organised by the Chinese Festivity Group headed by Akwan Chan.

He said: “Chinese New Year in Newcastle is an event where the whole family can come together and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the Orient.

“Each year we have a full programme of Chinese entertainment, lots of delicious food and market stalls with a wide variety of arts and crafts.

“The North East Chinese Association in Stowell Street opens its doors to the public and offers a warm welcome with a behind-the-scenes look at Chinese culture, music, hot drinks and food, and on Westgate Road the Chinese Centre offers computer workshops, Chinese calligraphy and the chance to make your own card celebrating the Chinese New Year.

“One of our most popular attractions in recent years has been the children’s marquee on Charlotte Square, where children can enjoy face painting, and learn the art of paper cutting, lantern making, and creating tiger masks.

“We are very grateful to all of our sponsors for their support, which enables the Chinese Festivity Group to produce this spectacular celebration in the heart of Newcastle’s China Town.”