28/3/2026
Lakeside Arts was filled with colour, music and excitement on Sunday, 22 February, as nearly 1,000 people gathered to celebrate Chinese New Year with the Nottingham Confucius Institute (NCI). The event combined spectacular stage performances with hands-on cultural workshops, offering something for everyone – from families with young children to lovers of Chinese culture.
The festivities began in the afternoon, with free drop-in workshops running from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Guests of all ages immersed themselves in traditional arts and crafts, trying their hand at Chinese calligraphy, paper cutting, and creating their own plasticine sculptures and wind chimes. Upstairs in the Visual Arts Studio, many children enjoyed a fan-painting workshop led by local artist Feng-Ru Lee. The little ones had plenty to enjoy too, with glitter crafts and colouring activities adding to the creative atmosphere. With more than 500 children and families taking part, the venue was buzzing with energy throughout the afternoon.
As evening approached, the celebration moved to the Djanogly Theatre, where two completely sold-out gala performances took place. Demand was exceptionally high, with tickets for both the 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm shows selling out more than four weeks in advance. Taking centre stage was the Art Troupe from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Confucius Institute at London South Bank University, who presented a breathtaking showcase of Chinese culture and tradition.
The one-hour performance took the audience on a captivating journey through music and movement. A unique blend of Eastern and Western instruments filled the theatre, featuring the beautiful melodies of the guzheng and erhu alongside the piano. Among the most memorable highlights were the thrilling group kung fu routines, where power, precision and elegance came together in a stunning display of martial artistry.
It was a truly memorable celebration that welcomed the new year in spectacular style.
Relive the highlights of the day here: cultural workshops and gala performances.
~ENDS~
Posted on Thursday 5th March 2026