Jasmine Performs at KC Dragon Boat Festival

On June 20, the Jasmine Chinese Dance Group had the honor of performing yet again at the annual Kansas City Dragon Boat Festival at the Country Club Plaza. This festival is the first and only Kansas City International Dragon Boat Festival has occurred annually since 2005 for about twenty years.

Held during the FIFA World Cup, this year's festival attracted a large number of both international and domestic visitors, creating a unique opportunity to share Chinese culture with a diverse audience. Through our five performances, Jasmine proudly showcased the beauty of Chinese dance while celebrating the vibrant multicultural community that makes Kansas City so special.

The solo performances highlighted a variety of styles and stories. Daphne's Jiu Er captivated the audience with its emotional storytelling, Katie's Dancing Peacock showcased the elegance of Chinese classical and Dai ethnic dance, and Sophia's Elephant King's Journey conveyed wisdom and confidence through a blend of traditional and modern elements.

"Mist and Rain Over the Magpie Bridge"

Tina and Kris performed Mist and Rain Over the Magpie Bridge, a graceful dance inspired by the legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl. Through elegant movements, they brought this timeless story of love and longing to life.

"Red Umbrellas under Youth"

Dancers in the 12–18 age group performed Red Umbrellas Under Youth, a modern classical dance that celebrated the energy and spirit of youth. With flowing red umbrellas and expressive movements, the dancers conveyed hope, confidence, and vitality.

The organizer of the annual Dragon Boat Festival expressed her enthusiasm towards the Jasmine Chinese group because of our spectacular performances last year. She said, "I am very excited your group is performing. A lot of people really like your performances last year."

Jasmine Dancers with the hosts from the KC Dragon Boat Festival

The Kansas City Dragon Boat Festival provided yet another wonderful opportunity for Jasmine Chinese Dance Group to share Chinese culture with a diverse audience from around the world. Through each performance, the dancers showcased their dedication, artistry, and passion for preserving cultural traditions. We are grateful for the opportunity to participate in this event again and look forward to continuing to celebrate and promote Chinese culture through dance in our community.

~Photography by Tuo Chen