On 1 July 2023, in commemoration of the 102nd anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, the Seniors University of China (SUC) and the China Arts Association (CAA) jointly organised a launch ceremony and press conference for the Inaugural CAA Silver Age Art Performance Festival.
The event was graced by the presence of Qiu Xinjian, Chairman of the China Arts Association (CAA); Liu Chen, deputy secretary of the Party Committee of the Open University of China (also known as SUC); as well as representatives from senior universities, community arts groups, social arts organisations, associations, societies, and promotion societies.
Liu delivered a speech in which he expressed the SUC's commitment to benefiting a larger number of older adults through the achievements of educational development in senior education. He emphasized the goal of "cultivating virtue, pursuing lifelong learning, proactively maintaining health, embracing a joyful life, and achieving positive accomplishments." The SUC aims to provide strong support for building a learning society and a country where lifelong learning is pursued by all. Liu also highlighted the opportunity to showcase Chinese wisdom and solutions in proactively responding to the challenges posed by an aging population. He expressed his hope that the event would not only have a significant impact in promoting proactive health awareness among older adults but also enhance their cultural and artistic literacy, ultimately enabling them to enjoy a fulfilling life during their silver years.
Jin Runjue, the director of the Silver Age Arts Management Centre of the CAA, provided details about the event. The Inaugural CAA Silver Age Art Performance Festival is scheduled to take place from July to September. It will encompass four distinct parts: Chinese Costume Art Performance, Square Dance Art Performance, Poetry Recitation and Choral Art Performance, and Pipe (Folk) Music Performance Art. The festival welcomes the participation of all middle-aged and elderly art enthusiasts. Competitions, performances, and exchanges will be organised by relevant local units, tailored to the specific circumstances of each region. Outstanding teams will have the opportunity to be selected and recommended for national performances.
Qiu announced the official launch of the Inaugural Chinese CAA Silver Age Performance Festival. Over the course of the next three months, art groups comprised of middle-aged and elderly individuals from all across China will enthusiastically participate and showcase incredible silver age art events.
By OUC School for Older Adults