"The theater was filled to capacity and the childrens' performance was a sensation," he said. "The live performance was far more influential than a movie."

"The art troupe's efforts propel the Chinese embassy's commitment to diplomatic exchange and cultural promotion."

The landscaped environment around the school, its elaborate decorations and child-friendly facilities brought his memory back to the old days when Cathy Future just launched.

"The original shabby three-story building was pitch dark. Even having a proper meal was an extravagance," he continued. "Coming back to the school, I' m amazed that it has been improved on such a colossal scale."

Chen Duqing, former ambassador of China to Brazil, said that the troupe's Brazil stop in 2000 was a resounding success.

"Tianjin's culture and glamor were on display for Brazil via the versatile children, using their amicable image and artistic skills as universal currency."

"Cathay Future's pioneering moves are in tune with a current call for 'soft power'. After all, sharing Chinese civilization and humanities with other countries plays an essential part in forging friendships between nations," he said.

"It was a bitter memory when the visa process was thorny and troupes had to stand a grueling 20-hour flight. But now things are different," he said.

Li Changhua, ambassador to Costa Rica, received the troupe in 2011. He recalled that the children dancers choreographed a Costa Rica-style dance upon arrival and plunged into intensive rehearsals. Their strenuous efforts paid off.