These China Institute Events Will Hop You Right Into the Year of the Rabbit

You only have a few weeks left to get ready for the new year — the Chinese new year, that is. 

The Year of the Rabbit on the Chinese lunar calendar begins January 22, and Lower Manhattan’s China Institute is celebrating with a series of events beginning this Sunday.

On January 8 is the Chinese New Year Festival, a “family fiesta” to ring in the new year, featuring guest performers from Suzhou and traditional activities from the region. That includes Suzhou-style embroidery and pingtan, a form of ballad singing. The event kicks off with the crowd-favorite lion dance at 1 p.m. Reserve your tickets here. 

That same day, you can check out a Kun opera, the oldest classical opera and most comprehensive theatrical art in China. The opera integrates drama, music, literature, dance and design. The China Institute is hosting two two Kun Opera performers from Suzhou Kunqu Opera Theatre, performing in full costume. Stick around for a talk after the performance. Get a ticket for Kun Opera here. 

Then, on January 13, visit the China Institute again for an evening of classical instrumental music. It features renowned musicals trained in traditional Chinese musical instruments who will wow the audience with music, followed by an intimate conversation with the artists. See the full list of performers and grab tickets here. 

photo: iStock