The tourist haven of Suzhou in eastern China became a heaven for star-chasers Wednesday night, as big names from the country's entertainment circle gathered there to raise the curtain on China's top film gala.

The 16th Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival opened with film stars singing and dancing on the stage.

Suzhou-born Hong Kong actress Carina Lau kicked off the night with a show-off of her dancing skills. Lau was followed by mainland actresses Huang Shengyi, Huang Yi, and actor Huang Xiaoming.

Action movie superstar, Jackie Chan, also took to the stage to share his memories of the film festival.

Singing sensations, including Jolin Tsai and Tsai Chin from Taiwan, and Joey Yung from Hong Kong, also contributed to the festival.

In the following days, a multitude of domestic and foreign films will be screened in different sessions. A special screening section is planned for Chinese winners of the Venice International Film Festival. Marco Muller, director of the Venice film festival, will appear on the scene to greet the audience.

The festival will wrap up on Saturday with another star-studded night honoring winners of the Golden Rooster Awards, known as China's Oscars.

Special guests announce the opening of the 16th Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival held in Suzhou on Wednesday, October 24, 2007.

Hong Kong actress Carina Lau attended the 16th Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival in Suzhou on Wednesday, October 24, 2007.

Kung Fu film star Jackie Chan attended the 16th Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival in Suzhou on Wednesday, October 24, 2007.

Renowned Chinese mainland actor Ge You attended the 16th Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival in Suzhou on Wednesday, October 24, 2007.

Hong Kong actress and singer Karen Mok attended the 16th Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival in Suzhou on Wednesday, October 24, 2007.

Taiwan pop singer Jolin Tsai attended the 16th Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival in Suzhou on Wednesday, October 24, 2007.

(CRI.cn Octobert 25, 2007)