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The spirit of Mei Lanfang, the first Peking Opera master to bring the art to the United States early in the last century, was revived on Sunday as a Chinese troupe performed for more than 1,000 spectators in Detroit, Michigan, a center of automobile manufacturing.
Organizer Lisa Gray thought the performance, sponsored by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council and its Beijing branch, was an effective way to strengthen the relationship between the two nations.
"I think the two countries have to collaborate," she told Xinhua News Agency. "I will work very hard to build bridges between them."
US politicians also looked forward to enhancing bilateral relations and understanding through cultural exchanges.
"I think it's important that we continue to improve and grow our relationship with China, in political and cultural and business communities. Anything I can do to further that goal, I'm happy to work hard at," Michigan congressman David Trott said.
Echoing his remarks, Rodrick T. Miller, CEO of Detroit Economic Growth Corporations, said: "Detroit really embraces Chinese culture and Chinese society."
The troupe from Beijing performed some of the most famous Peking Opera works, including The True and False Monkey King, with two colorfully dressed monkeys battling each other; and Farewell My Concubine.
"It's a great cultural experience. ... I love to experience new cultures and look at new dances and how they work," said Chanel Stefanovi, 12. "I love how the different costumes and makeup are just a whole different experience compared to what I'm used to."
Chanel has been learning Mandarin and attending Chinese singing lessons since she was 4. She is now looking for someone to teach her how to play Chinese musical instruments.
Peking Opera's role in narrowing cultural divides was also recognized by the members of the troupe.
Wang Rongrong, a renowned star, said she feels it is her responsibility to bring Chinese culture to the US.
"I would like to introduce the great art to all our American friends and hope they will like it," she said.
