When culture unites, the world becomes a stage for connection.

On the evening of September 22nd, participants of the Yeah-CHN Global Youth Development Programme gathered for a grand cultural gala that brought together performances celebrating diverse heritages and heartfelt connections to China. Hosted in Chengdu, the gala became a moving display of cultural exchange, camaraderie, and creativity.

The Cambridge University rowers opened their act with a special twist on the beloved Chinese ballad “Chengdu”. Adapting the lyrics into a rowing-themed version, they expressed their affection for Xinjin, Chengdu, China, and the sport of rowing itself. The most memorable part came when they sang the chorus in carefully practiced Chinese: “跟我在新津的河里划一划” ("Come row with me in the river of Xinjin"), accompanied by choreographed rowing movements in sync with the song’s rhythm. Their heartfelt performance, paired with an original and moving saxophone solo, beautifully blended Chinese folk music with Western influences, captivating the audience. Rowers, spectators, and locals alike were deeply moved, singing along in unison.

The evening featured a captivating array of traditional Chinese performances. The audience was mesmerized by the Sichuan opera face-changing and fire-breathing act, where performers seamlessly shifted masks and erupted flames, showcasing the artistry of this ancient theatrical tradition. This was followed by a stunning dance piece, "Only Green" (只此青绿), which brought to life the beauty and grace of traditional Chinese landscapes through elegant movements and visual poetry.

In a soul-stirring moment, a vocalist performed "Water Tune Song" (水调歌头), blending classical Chinese poetry with rich, melodic singing that echoed through the hall. The performance evoked a sense of timelessness, connecting the audience to China’s literary heritage.

The evening’s magic reached new heights with a special magic show featuring an interactive act. A Cambridge participant joined the magician on stage to perform the stunning "human levitation," leaving the audience in awe of the illusion and seamless collaboration.

The University of Sydney team followed with a warm greeting in carefully prepared Chinese before singing the iconic Australian folk song Waltzing Matilda. Their performance transported the audience to Australia’s rugged outback, painting vivid scenes of campfires, billabongs, and the nomadic swagman. The soulful rendition highlighted Australia’s rich cultural heritage, fostering a heartfelt exchange between two distant yet connected lands.

Next, rowers from the University of Otago delivered a powerful performance of the traditional Māori haka. With thunderous chants, synchronized stomping, and fierce expressions, the stage seemed to tremble under the sheer energy of the performance. The audience gasped in awe, fully absorbed in the raw power and cultural pride emanating from the haka.

Imperial College lightened the mood with a lively and interactive cha-cha dance. Their joyful and approachable performance encouraged everyone to join in, with audience members spilling onto the stage to share in the fun. The energy in the room was infectious, creating a moment of unity and laughter.

Tsinghua University rowers showcased their deep bond with their alma mater, delivering a stirring rendition of their school song. The powerful harmony and prideful lyrics resonated with everyone, reflecting the team’s strong identity and spirit.

The evening concluded with a high-energy performance by Sun Yat-sen University, who sang “Benpao” (“Run”). The inspiring lyrics—“Run freely with the wind as your direction, chasing the power of thunder and lightning”—perfectly embodied the athletic and adventurous spirit of rowing. As the performance reached its peak, the entire audience joined the performers on stage, dancing, cheering, and celebrating together in a moment of pure joy and connection.

This unforgettable evening showcased the beauty of cultural exchange, as participants celebrated both their unique identities and their shared love for China. The gala proved that music, art, and friendship transcend borders, uniting us all on a global stage.