Published 4 January 2012

Chinese New Year 2012 @ The Trafford Centre

CHINESE New Year kicks off in colour at The Trafford Centre, as a parade of acrobatics and authentic Chinese arts wows shoppers to mark the Year of the Dragon.

The Centre's giant food hall The Orient and the atmospheric Chinatown is the starting point for celebrations, which carry over onto the Main Stage.

World-famous martial arts, and traditional contortion and blade acts are lined up.

Gordon McKinnon, director of operations, said: "Every Chinese New Year we've learned to expect something new from the Chinese community. This year is no different with some fascinating martial arts and musical displays, and of course the traditional dragon dance.

"This is our opportunity to wish the historic Chinese community in Manchester a very happy new year, and join in with the splendour of the celebrations. The restaurants which serve Chinese food here are especially excited about the event, and anyone who wants a taste of China in a warm, safe place should head our way."

Manchester-based Chinese martial arts society Jin Long, led by champion martial artist Master Chen, are set to bring an authentic taste of Chinese culture to the main stage with a host of entertainment and crafts.

The run-down of the free event is as follows:

2012 Chinese New Year Performance Programme List

Trafford Centre

22 January 2012

First Half - starting 1pm:

1. Chinese Lion Dance

2. Acrobatics – ‘Happy Pandas’

3. Roller Skating

4. Taiji sword

5. Rolling Rugs

6. Meteors

Interval (15 minutes)

Second Half:

1. Jin Long Kung Fu Performance

2. Comedy Act / Magic

3. Single Contortion

4. Ballet Dance on Palm

5. Face Changing

6. Straw Hat Juggling

7. Finale

8. Dragon Dance

Approximate finish time: between 3.00 - 3.30pm.

Notes to Editors:

Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, begins on 23rd January 2012. It is the main Chinese festival of the year and it is not a religious event.

Traditionally celebrations last for fifteen days, ending on the date of the full moon. In China the public holiday lasts for three days and this is the biggest celebration of the year.

2011 was the Chinese Year of the Rabbit, while 2010 was the Year of the Tiger.

PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILMING: Chinese New Year is always a very visual event at The Trafford Centre, and we are happy to host film crews and press photographers. Please email the press office with your request, on jwebb@traffordcentre.co.uk