On March 3 (Tuesday), at the Northern California Chinese Overseas Association, a special Chinese New Year performance was held at the “Joyful Gathering Home” in Fremont, bringing a festive atmosphere to the elderly with a free show. The performance attracted dozens of seniors who enjoyed the warm and joyful atmosphere.
The event was hosted by Dr. Wu Muye, Chairman of the Northern California Chinese Overseas Association, featuring a diverse and exciting program including group singing of “Congratulations”, classical dance “Waiting for the Cuckoo under the Moon”, kung fu fan dance, Cha Cha dance, lantern dance, Tibetan dance, “Night in Shanghai” dance, as well as songs like “By the Suzhou River” and “Conditions for Success”. The performance concluded with a heartwarming group rendition of “Wishing You Happiness”.
Director Wu Yuping of the Northern California Chinese Overseas Association expressed that charity performances have always been a key focus for the association, aiming to bring joy and companionship to the elderly through art and music. She mentioned that due to her hoarse voice from a busy schedule of performances, some songs were sung by other members, but she still personally led the dance troupe on stage. She emphasized the importance of leading the dance to ensure the elderly remember the moves. The team often performs at senior centers, bringing joy to seniors with limited mobility or lacking family support.
Recalling visits to retirement communities in the past, Director Wu Yuping shared touching moments where elderly individuals in wheelchairs watched the performances, with some even shedding tears and asking when they would return. She highlighted that many senior centers house elderly individuals who lack family visits, making performances during holidays especially comforting and joyful for them. She stressed the importance of warmth and care for the elderly and vulnerable in society. The next charity performance by the team is scheduled during Mother’s Day and will continue to visit different senior centers to perform.
Volunteer Zhang Chaoying also shared her experience participating in charity performances. She mentioned that the team aims to bring happiness to the elderly through public performances, enabling them to enjoy their later years. Having learned dance since childhood and received professional dance training, Zhang Chaoying returned to dance teaching and choreography after retirement. She personally designed and taught most of the dances performed that day, from choreography to costume arrangements. She noted that dancing not only exercises various joints in the body but also helps to maintain a cheerful mood, allowing one to forget their worries when dancing. At 69, she laughed and expressed how dancing keeps people young and vibrant, enriching retired life.
After the performance, the Market Manager Lou Xiaopei and Activity Leader Tan Yongping from the Joyful Gathering Home presented a certificate of appreciation to the Northern California Chinese Overseas Association on behalf of the center. Lou Xiaopei expressed gratitude for the association’s participation in the charity performance during the Lunar New Year, bringing holiday cheer and laughter to the elderly. She mentioned that many seniors greatly enjoy such lively activities, creating a sense of family among participants. 🌟