Mark the start of the Year of the Snake with an unforgettable evening of dazzling performances, breath-taking acrobatics, and cultural celebration at Oxford Playhouse.
The Chinese New Year Festival Show: Year of the Snake, staged by the Confucius Institute at Oxford Brookes University in collaboration with Jinlong Culture & Performing Arts, returns on Wednesday, 15th January 2025 for a vibrant and family-friendly event.
From stunning acrobatics and dynamic Kung Fu displays to mesmerising dances and an 18-metre-long dragon that will light up the stage, this celebration promises to captivate audiences of all ages.
Cultural Highlights:
- The Lion Dance, a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, will bring festive joy and energy.
- The elegant fan dance and intricate Chinese dance routines will celebrate the rich traditions of Chinese performing arts.
- Britain’s best Kung Fu displays will showcase skill and precision, alongside a colourful feast of movement and rhythm.
Founded by Master Chen (Chen Deqing), Manchester-based Jinlong Culture & Performing Arts aims to broaden the reach of Chinese culture and arts across the UK. Master Chen has also directed Chinese New Year celebrations in Manchester’s Chinatown, considered one of Europe’s biggest and best events.
Tickets and Booking
- Date: Wednesday, 15th January 2025
- Location: Oxford Playhouse
- Ticket Prices: Starting at £14
- Box Office: Call 01865 305305 or visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com.
Significance of Chinese New Year and the Year of the Snake
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important celebration in the Chinese calendar. It marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is a time for families to come together, honour traditions, and celebrate with food, fireworks, and cultural performances. Each year is represented by one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, with each animal symbolising unique traits and characteristics.
The Year of the Snake is particularly significant as the snake is seen as a symbol of wisdom, intuition, and transformation. People born in the Year of the Snake are believed to be intelligent, resourceful, and determined. In Chinese culture, the snake also represents patience and the ability to adapt, making this year a time to embrace change, growth, and new opportunities.
When is Chinese New Year 2025
In 2025 Chinese New Year is on Wednesday 29th January.
Chinese New Year, is an annual 15-day festival in China and Chinese communities around the world that begins with the new moon that occurs sometime between January 21 and February 20 according to Western calendars. Festivities last until the following full moon.
