Press Releases

Enter the Dragon at the National Waterfront Museum

Chinese New Year will soon be here and the National Waterfront Museum is once again helping the Swansea Chinese Community Centre with its exciting plans for the colourful celebrations.

2012 sees the Year of the Dragon return for the first time since the new millennium and it is said to be the luckiest and most dynamic sign of the Chinese zodiac.

Visitors are encouraged to join in the festivities with a day of music, workshops and special events for all the family this Sunday, 22 January from 11am-4pm.

Those coming along will have the chance to see a traditional Lion dance, take part in arts and crafts - such as learning to write Chinese - as well as watch Kung Fu demonstrations and various cultural displays.

A sports area will showcase the talent behind shuttlecock kicking and a costume parade will highlight the country’s traditional dress. A special countdown to welcome the New Year will begin at 4pm.

“We’re delighted to be hosting the bright and colourful Chinese New Year celebrations,” said Head of Museum, Steph Mastoris.  “It promises to be a fun, busy event with lots for visitors to see and do throughout the day and it’s great that we’re able to showcase the wonderful culture, history and traditions the Chinese communities bring to the city and indeedWales.”

Speaking on behalf of the Swansea Chinese Community Centre, Chairperson Mrs Wai Fong Lee MBE said: “Chinese New Year is the most important Chinese festival and the Centre is pleased to work with the National Waterfront Museum again to organise the celebrations. Last year was very successful, I hope this year we will continue the success. In addition to promoting Chinese culture, the Centre hopes to share the joy of the Chinese New Year celebration with other communities and help creating a harmonious society.”

Special events

Other events taking place during the day include a special welcome by the Lord Mayor of the City & County of Swansea, Councilor loan Richard at 1.30pm and performances from Swansea University Chinese Society and the Chinese Women’s Group.

ENDS

Notes to editor

Photo Opportunity: Members of the press and media are welcome to attend, please contact Marie Szymonski on 01792 638970 for more details.

The Chinese Community Centre is based on the Kingsway in Swansea.  It was set up to provide services and support to the Chinese community both in the city and South Wales.  Its long-terms aim is to improve the employment prospects and quality of life for the Chinese community whilst encouraging them to participate in local activities and services. For more information, visit www.swanseachinese.org.uk

Admission to Amgueddfa Cymru - National Museum Wales sites is free thanks to the support of the Welsh Assembly Government.

Amgueddfa Cymru operates seven national museums acrossWales.

National Museum Cardiff

St Fagans: National History Museum

National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon

Big Pit: National Coal Museum

National Wool Museum, Dre-fach

National Slate Museum, Llanberis

National Waterfront Museum, Swansea