By PAUL TOH (NSTP)

MESMERISING: The historical clan house treats visitors to a cultural extravaganza

This was what the people came to see and they were not disappointed.

GEORGE TOWN: ONCE a month, the majestic Khoo Kongsi temple at Cannon Square becomes sparklingly bright as its spacious courtyard gets illuminated for “An Evening of Lights at Khoo Kongsi” that features Chinese culture.

This time around, the historical clan building played host to hundreds of attendees showcasing Chinese cultural and folk dances performed by 5678 Dance Studio.

Dancing and singing to the infectious rhythm of the music, the youthful dancers mesmerised the crowd with tantalising offerings that included contemporary, folk, traditional and modern numbers.

Australian visitor Luke Moore, from Brisbane, said he heard about the event through brochures at the hotel where he and his family were staying.

“The hotel staff recommended that we watch this show as it only takes place once a month, with the spectacular temple all lighted up at night,” said Moore.

“We are glad we made it here as it is truly an experience not to be missed, to be in the courtyard with the magnificent temple and also the superb cultural show.”

His family of four nodded in agreement.

It was a wonderful night for all who turned up, as the multi-cultural opening number really got the crowd in the right mood.

Dancers in colourful costumes and trappings twirled and whirled their way through numbers such as Good Luck, Blooming Jasmine, Moonlight on the Lake, Kiss me Once, Childhood Memories, Nobody and a revamped Banana Boat.

Organised by Penang Global Tourism, the event also featured a mini bazaar where handicrafts as well as a nice selection of hawker fare were for sale.

A sight to behold as the dancers twirled and whirled on stage.

Youthful exuberance adds to a high-octane performance.

The popular fan dance, an integral part of Chinese dance culture.

Singer belting out a bouncy number to the delight of the crowd. Pix by Paul Toh

Source: http://www.nst.com.my/streets/northern/showcase-of-chinese-culture-at-khoo-kongsi-1.136822