The Year of Australian Culture in China kicked off last June and just concluded here in Beijing. In response, a year of Chinese culture called "Experience China" will be unveiled in Australia later this month. Cultural officials of both countries announced the event at the Ministry of Culture in Beijing on Wednesday.

"Experience China" is the largest serial cultural event the Chinese government has ever initiated in Australia. Major Australian cities such as Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth will see over 80 projects. The events will range from visual art, music, theater, dance, film, and literature to exhibitions.

The opening ceremony, which is set for June 24th, will present "The Legend of Shangri La", a Chinese rhythm and dance sensation featuring outstanding dancer Yang Liping.

Also headlining the year-long festival are China National Ballet's "Peony Pavilion", stage drama "Rhinoceros in Love", "New Horizon" - China Contemporary Art Exhibition, and "First Ritual", a collaborative performance of Beijing Dance LDTX and Australia's Expressions Dance Company. Piano prodigy Lang Lang and talented violinist Li Chuanyun will also hold concerts.

Xu Tong, deputy director of External Cultural Relations, Min. of Culture, said, "We asked Australian artists and market insiders for suggestions and we found that Australian audiences prefer modern and contemporary pieces rather than traditional ones. So we selected the most representative works that put up today's Chinese people's living conditions and spirits. All the programs are popular at home and we are looking forward to seeing them welcomed by Australian people."

"Imagine Australia", the Year of Australian Culture in China that launched in Beijing last June, hosted nearly 200 activities in over 30 cities. The diverse performances showcased a dynamic, modern and multicultural Australia to the Chinese people.

Now it's China's turn to present a panoramic vision of Chinese culture, and to promote mutual understanding between the two peoples.

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