Guilin Performers to give FREE Public Concert

February 24, 2011

A Good-Will Delegation Performing Group from Guilin is to play a major part in Hastings 30th Anniversary of its Sister City relationship.

The 13 strong group will perform a free public concert at the Hawke’s Bay Opera House on Thursday March 3 at 7.30.

They will also perform at the annual International Cultures Day on Saturday, March 5 at Cornwall Park The relationship between Hastings and Guilin began, when the late Dr Don McKenzie started professional contacts with the Guangxi Institute of Botany in 1977.

“Councilor Kevin Watkins says it’s most pleasing that two representatives from the institute will attend this year’s celebrations.

A delegation from the Guilin Municipal Government, led by Executive Vice Mayor Mr Huang Junhua will also be in Hastings to hold talks with council, focusing on further developments in the relationship.

“The dignitaries visit follows cultural exchanges and business delegations to Guilin and will explore new opportunities, which will be of benefit to both cities” Mr Watkins says.

The visiting delegation will attend an official banquet on March 4th.

Members of the public and the business community are warmly invited to the banquet with tickets $75 per person, available through TicketDirect

Osmanthus Garden Lights Up for Sister City Anniversary
Decorative lights will be installed in the Osmanthus Garden in Cornwall Park, for the 30th anniversary of Hastings Sister City relationship with Guilin.

The gardens have undergone a rejuvenation in preparation for the anniversary, with the lighting and new gates being the key features of the changes.

The lights will be turned on until 9pm each night during the week of the celebrations, starting on Monday February 28th..

The Osmanthus garden was created in 1996 as part of the 15th anniversary of the Sister City relationship with Guilin and is traditional to the southern part of China.

Public libraries in Hastings, Havelock North and Flaxmere will have Guilin displays during the week, while the central area of Hastings CBD will be adorned with Chinese lanterns.

The Guilin Good-Will Delegation Performing Group will entertain at a number of schools and give a free public concert at the Hawke’s Bay Opera House on Thursday March 3rd at 7.30.

Seating at the public concert is limited and anyone wanting to attend should pick up a free ticket from Hastings i-Site.

ENDS

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