'Elderly Woman Says She Will Remember 'Spectacular' for the Rest of her Life

TAMPERE, Finland—With her daughter by her side, translating from her native Finnish, 87-year-old Emma-Liisa Tornwall recounted her impression of the Chinese Spectacular, currently playing at Tampere Hall in Finland.

"She says she is going to remember it for the rest of her life," said her daughter, Riita Hannelius. "She thinks it is so spectacular."

She added that her mother enjoyed the variety of acts in the show and appreciated its historical content. Tornwall said the backdrop was especially impressive as the picture changed with each new scene.

The Divine Performing Arts presents traditional Chinese culture gleaned from meticulous research into China's ancient past.

"I didn't know what it would be like," said Hannelius, admitting to her lack of knowledge of Chinese culture prior to seeing the show.

"I like to see the dance technique. I watched a lot of dance. The way they move, [Chinese Classical dancers] is different than in western ballet. I think it was very interesting. Of course the colours of the costumes were really, really beautiful."

Tornwall is a singer and she instilled the importance of dance and music into her daughter.

"That is why it is nice to see a show where there is music and dance," said Hannelius. "I enjoy the music, very relaxing, really enjoy it…. Of course the costumes are nice and colorful. Mother likes the color of the costumes."

Hannelius is an early-childhood educator and takes dance as a hobby.

"I have always danced. I used to dance ballet…then jazz. I always enjoy watching dance and music. I sing in the choir. Mother is also a singer." The two decided to attend the Spectacular after reading about it in a local newspaper.

Tornwall especially enjoyed Jiansheng Yang's voice, the alto in the show, adding that she herself still likes to sing.

For information about upcoming Divine Performing Arts shows, please visit: www.DivinePerformingArts.org.