Gala to commemorate anniversary of victory

China will stage a gala themed "bearing history in mind, honoring martyrs, cherishing peace and striving for a better future" at the Great Hall of the People on the evening of Sept 3 as part of the V-Day commemorations, Vice-Minister of Culture and Tourism Lu Yingchuan said on Thursday.

The final integration of the art performance is underway, Lu said at a news conference in Beijing.

"We strive to present a spectacular artistic performance that is both grand and 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 (1931-45)," he said.

The gala will focus on significant historical milestones and scenes from the eastern theater of the World Anti-Fascist War, highlighting the pivotal role of the Communist Party of China in the nationwide resistance against Japanese aggression, Lu said.

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 message that justice will prevail, peace will prevail and the people will prevail, he said.

In terms of artistic expression, Lu said the gala will employ a variety of stage art forms, including music, dance and drama, and will use diverse techniques such as stage performances, multimedia and immersive sound effects to recreate moving historical scenes.

A large number of artists from across the country have been invited, with a younger generation of cultural professionals playing a leading role in the creative process, Lu said.

"We hope that both those who have lived through this history and those living in the new era will experience a profound historical immersion through the gala's captivating performance, prompting reflection and emotional resonance," he said.

The event is being jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, China Media Group, the Political Work Department of the Central Military Commission and the Beijing Municipal People's Government.

Leaders of the Party and state, veterans and individuals who contributed to the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, representatives who have received honors and awards, members of the public and other guests will attend the event, Lu said.

At the same news conference, Xia Linmao, executive vice-mayor of Beijing, said the city has made all-out efforts to prepare for the commemorations to ensure their success.

Measures have been taken to support the activities, including addressing the needs of troops participating in the military parade and providing efficient services for the creation and rehearsal of the gala performances, Xia said.

"Additionally, we have selected a large group of enthusiastic and professional volunteers from more than 30 universities in the capital to provide timely and attentive volunteer services at key points of the commemorative activities, showcasing the positive image of Beijing," he said.

A themed exhibition is being held at the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing, featuring 1,525 photographs, 3,237 relics and 45 historical videos.

Since opening to the public on July 8, the exhibition has attracted about 580,000 visitors, Xia said.

He added that Beijing has strengthened security measures to ensure safety in all aspects of city operations during the commemorative activities.

caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn