The Irish Festival in China, which was formally opened by me in Beijing on 9 May 2004, comprised a total of 27 performances and events from 22 performing groups and leading artists and two exhibitions. The festival in Beijing was included as part of the Meet in Beijing Festival in May, at which Ireland was the featured guest nation. Many of these events transferred to Shanghai, where the entire festival finishes on 3 July with the closing of an exhibition of contemporary art from the Irish Museum of Modern Art. Our programme in China also included a number of artistic collaborations and residencies involving Irish and Chinese artists.
As extensively reported in the Irish and Chinese media, the festival was a great success with Chinese audiences. The events were well attended and many sold out.
The festival in Ireland of Chinese arts and culture encompasses many art forms and includes several Chinese artists in residence. It will open at the Galway Arts Festival with the China Conservatory of Music and the Beijing Academy of Dance in July. Details of the programme are attached for the Deputy's information. The cultural exchange is intended to lead to a greater understanding between our two peoples and should assist in the ongoing development of positive cultural, economic, trade and social relations between our two countries and to raise awareness of Ireland within China as part of the Government's Asia strategy. It is hoped, also, to develop lasting relationships between Irish artists and organisations that will hopefully encourage continuing artistic dialogue between Ireland and China.