Jennie K. Kolter Elementary School
         
Chinese Dancers Perform at Kolter - Feb 2007

Chinese Dance Extravaganza!
by Bryna Kennedy

   In a kaleidoscope of banners, drums, lanterns and smiles, the dancers swept into the room.  And then the magic began. 

On Wednesday, February 7, Kolter Elementary School was honored to host a special dance performance by the Art Ensemble of Renmin University High School from Beijing, China.
   Kindergarten, first, second and third-graders watched in delight as the nimble dancers swayed and leaped across the stage.  The opening number was a spectacle of colors, as girls with fans and streamers performed “Spring Festival Celebration.”  This was followed by the mesmerizing dance “Rain Falling Onto Bamboo Trees.”  In “Sichuan Traditional Dance,” five young ladies gave Kolter a taste of Chinese opera—complete with headpieces featuring feathers that extended nearly two yards above the head. 
   However, dancing wasn’t the only thing this talented troupe did.  “Rival” was a powerful martial arts number.  The athletes tumbled, flipped, and flashed swords in a stunning display of skill.  Accompanied by their dance instructor, Ms. Ye Na, the 32 young performing artists put on a stunning show.
   At the conclusion of the performance, Ms. Liu Xiaohui, Assistant Principal of Renmin University High School, presented Kolter Principal Ms. Brenda Keith with a beautiful Chinese porcelain doll. 

Pictures by: Mr. Shi Yanhui