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The grand scale performances, which feature more than 150 dancers, singers and performance artists, takes place today until Sunday, Jan. 20. The Chinese New Year Spectacular, which is produced in partnership by New Tang Dynasty TV (NTDTV) and the Divine Performing Arts Group, has received critical acclaim from audiences around the globe.

"The show is sophisticated and spectacular yet simple and clean," said Peijong Hsieh, production manager of the Chinese New Year Spectacular. "Our goal is to express pure grandeur and beauty in ways ancient and new."

The program highlights many of the tenants at the heart of traditional Chinese culture, which include showing respect for heaven; participating in the quest for virtue; displaying morality; and acting with sincerity. The Chinese New Year Spectacular aims to revive these often overshadowed aspects of traditional Chinese culture through elaborate and educational displays.

The show is presented in both English and Chinese in order to embrace the growing multicultural interest in Chinese culture. The production features a seasoned company of dancers, singers, musicians and a full orchestra; while the masterful choreography and graceful routines within the show range from classical processions to ethnic folk dances. Based on ancient heroic legends and fables from China's many historical dynasties, the charm of these performances continues to satisfy ever-growing audiences.

Although the Chinese New Year Spectacular is an important platform for celebrating the Chinese culture, the show is not without its share of controversy. Last year's edition of the production included an interpretive dance depicting police attacking and killing a person performing movements of Falun Gong, a group that practises special exercises and meditation, and which is banned by the Chinese government.

In response to this, the Chinese embassy in Ottawa issued a statement saying it disapproved of "the participation in the New Year Spectacular by the officials of any country in any form."

The Chinese embassy also initiated an information campaign aimed at the general public that encouraged individuals not to attend performances. Internationally, several U.S. officials have made public letters from Chinese consulates in the U.S. warning them not to attend the shows or to provide support or congratulatory greetings in any form.

John Baird, Canada's Environment Minister, attended a preview performance of this year's Chinese New Year Spectacular in Ottawa earlier this month. He said the show presents "a very different perspective of China and the values that are at the root of a lot of Chinese civilization, which is exciting culturally and intellectually."

Baird also revealed that he had not been contacted by the Chinese embassy regarding the performance saying, "I didn't receive a letter myself, but I was here last year and I am very happy to be here again this year."

While the Chinese New Year Spectacular may not represent the views of a number of Chinese government officials, it remains a dynamic display of Chinese art and culture, which is well worth viewing. Visit www.bestchineseshows.com for details.

Jon Sarpong is the diversity officer at Durham College. He provides independent diversity training and consultation for various organizations. Contact Jon by e-mailing jsarpong@hotmail.com.