(Clearwisdom.net) From January 25 to 26, Divine Performing Arts presented 3 shows of the Chinese New Year Spectacular at the Arie Crown Theater, the largest theater in Chicago. The organizing committee of the show has received many congratulatory letters and proclamations from Illinois elected officials, commending the show for presenting authentic Chinese culture and entertaining Chicagoland residents with a spirit-lifting experience. Below are excerpts from these documents.
On January 9, the Illinois General Assembly adopted Resolution HR0888 to honor "the performers and organizers of the 2008 Chinese New Year Spectacular on their work in promoting the Chinese fine arts." Interestingly, ten days later, the Illinois General Assembly adopted another resolution (HR 0914) in which it stated:
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WHEREAS, The Chinese Communist Party has destroyed traditional morality and beliefs, leaving a spiritual and ethical void in China; and
WHEREAS, The Spectacular, a presentation of genuine Chinese culture free of the culture of the Communist Party, showcases a renaissance and reclamation of the long-lost treasures of China;
WHEREAS, The 2008 Chinese New Year Spectacular is co-hosted by the Sound of Hope Radio and Mid-USA Falun Dafa Association; and
WHEREAS, The Sound of Hope Radio is an independent Chinese-language media company and a not-for-profit organization dedicated to facilitating cross-cultural communications between the East and West, and to assisting the public in their search for valuable cultural knowledge; and
WHEREAS, The Mid-USA Falun Dafa Association is dedicated to the promotion and practice of the principles of "Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance," and endeavors to extend far and wide these most precious and noble human ideals; therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FIFTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we honor and express our support for the 2008 Chinese New Year Spectacular; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the Chinese New Year Spectacular Organizing Committee.
In a proclamation, 3rd District Senator Mattie Hunter wrote:
WHEREAS, the Chinese New Year Spectacular will present "Myths and Legends," which aims to transport the audience to the "Land of the Divine," where beauty and enchantment uplifts the audience through graceful performances and gorgeous scenery; and
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WHEREAS, the Chinese New Year Spectacular is a revival of traditional Chinese culture through music and dance, a unifying event for people interested in Chinese culture, and a celebration of core Chinese values such as propriety, righteousness, benevolence, and wisdom; therefore be it
PROCLAIMED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-FIFTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF T HE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we extend best wishes to the Chinese New Year Spectacular on a successful show and a joyous New Year; ...
In a letter to the Spectacular Organizing Committee, Tom Cross, Illinois House Republican Leader, wrote:
I want to take this opportunity to offer my personal congratulations as you celebrate the 2008 Chinese New Year Spectacular in Chicago.
"Myths and Legends" promises to provide itself as a world-renowned celebration. The audiences will be able to experience and enjoy the true spirit of Chinese culture.
Again, congratulations to the organizers, performers and attendees of the 2008 Chinese New Year Spectacular. My best wishes for continued success."
In a letter dated December 11, 2007, Barbara Flynn Currie, Illinois House Majority Leader, wrote:
Through music and dance, the best of traditional Chinese culture will be on display for both Western and Chinese audiences. The spectacular is a world-class production, and its attention to the myths and legends of the Chinese past provides a wonderful introduction to the Chinese people and Chinese heritage.
I congratulate all who participate in the gala event. The stunning performances and the outstanding artistry combine to create a magic sense of community among the attendees. Enjoy the celebration, and congratulations on its success. I wish you, as always, the best in the coming year, the year of the Rat.
State Attorney General Lis Madigan wrote:
As Attorney General of the State of Illinois, I am delighted to welcome you to the 2007 Chinese New Year Spectacular, where the best of Chinese music and dance come together to bring to life the myths, legends, and beauty of the Chinese culture. In 4706, the Year of the Rat, the Chinese New Year is a celebrated family affair and a time of renewal.
The Chinese New Year Spectacular is a grand event that celebrates Chinese heritage and traditions. I commend the Chicago Sound of Hope and other supporting community organizations and agencies for their efforts in hosting the New Year celebration and their work on behalf of Chinese Americans.
To the members of the Organizing Committee in Chicago, volunteers, and guests, I offer my best wishes for a joyous New Year Spectacular and "Year of the Rat."
In recognizing the achievement of the Chinese New Year Spectacular and its far-reaching impact on society, Cook County Board President Todd Stroger proclaimed January 26 as Chinese New Year Spectacular Day in Cook county:
"I, Todd H . Stroger, President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, do hereby recognize January 26, 2008, to be Chinese New Year Spectacular Day in Cook County, and do proclaim my gratitude to all of the persons involved in creating "Myths and Legends" and bringing this wonderful cultural offering to Cook County."
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