A series of performances and exhibitions featuring African culture and arts will be staged in Beijing during the whole month of May, as an important part of the national cultural gala "Meet in Beijing".

Xie Fei, an official with the Ministry of Culture (MOC), said here Monday at a press conference that the cultural event is intended to introduce African civilization and customs to common Chinese.

It will invite 10 artistic troupes from South Africa, Congo, Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Tanzania and Botswana, and arrange three exhibitions on handicrafts, painting, and photograph, respectively, Xie said.

An evening party will also be held on May 23 at the Great Hall of the People, with nine troupes staging different artistic styles of different regions.

According to the party director Xing Dehui, every piece of the actors' dress and accouterment was inspired by the African people's daily life.

The MOC said Chinese artistic troupes will also make a performance tour in Africa in July.
 
(Xinhua News Agency April 27, 2004)