First press conference on the events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Hong. Now I'll give the floor to Mr. Lu.

Lu Yingchuan:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Entrusted by the leadership of the gala, I will briefly introduce the cultural evening and commencement of the party. The evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 in Beijing to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Leaders of the Party and nation, veterans and individuals who contributed to China's War of Resistance, representatives who have received honors and awards, members of the general public, as well as other guests from all walks of life will attend the event.

The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the China Media Group, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government. A team of leading domestic artists was formed and fully engaged in the creation and rehearsal of the gala performance. After multiple rounds of revisions and evaluations, the gala performance has now entered its final integration stage. We strive to present a spectacular artistic performance that is both grand yet simple, inspiring and profound, as a tribute to the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

Now I will inform you about the gala.

First, in terms of theme, we must remember history, honor the fallen heroes, cherish peace and create a better future. The gala will focus on significant historical milestones and scenes from the eastern theater of the World Anti-Fascist War. It will highlight the pivotal role of the Communist Party of China in the nationwide resistance against Japanese aggression. While honoring the revolutionary martyrs who fought in the war, the gala will also demonstrate China's commitment to maintaining world peace and security, underscoring the eternal truth that justice will prevail, peace will prevail, and the people will prevail. The gala not only presents the grand history of the 14-year War of Resistance, but also portrays touching moments and glorious times during the war. The gala will journey from the past to the present, offering a heartfelt tribute to the history, figures, and events of the past, while envisioning a thriving China in the new era. It will highlight the indomitable spirit of the Chinese people in fighting to the end and safeguarding justice. It will celebrate 80 years of victory, and express the pursuit of a better life — inspiring patriotism and passion among the people.

Second, in terms of artistic expression, we strive to tell the story of the War of Resistance through the lens of art, within the grand narrative of history, highlighting the theatrical essence while aspiring to an epic quality. The gala will weave together music, dance, and dramatic scenes to subtly convey the emotional logic of the Chinese people toward this period of history. We will comprehensively employ a variety of expressive methods, including stage performances, multimedia and immersive sound effects, and fuse them to give full play to the synergistic role of these elements. This will create deeply moving historical scenes that amplify artistic appeal, visual impact, and emotional resonance. We hope that both those who have lived through this history and those in the new era who reflect deeply on this history will experience a profound historical immersion through the gala's captivating performance, prompting reflection and genuine emotion.

Third, as I mentioned at the previous press conference, we have boldly entrusted a group of young artists to take the leading role in the creation and performance of this gala. In areas such as directing, choreography, music and composition, a number of post-1980s artists have served as the main creative force behind the event. Among the performers, many young artists born in the 1990s and 2000s play the central roles. We believe that through the gala, the audience will be able to feel the sense of deep respect these youthful artists convey on stage, paying tribute to this important historical anniversary, with their superb performances. Thank you.