Over 100 students from 10 countries, including the United States, Brazil, Spain, and Japan, immersed themselves in Chinese Opera and folk art during a recent cultural event in Tianjin.

The Wonderful China+ event allowed these students to explore Peking Opera face painting, learn performance techniques, and try Tianjin Kuaiban, a form of rhythmic storytelling.

Participants learned how the intricate process of face painting uses colors and symbols to convey identities, personalities, and emotions. They also practiced basic performance steps before showcasing their skills on stage.

"I was impressed by how specific colors have meanings during face-painting," said US student Aria Albright."This makes it interesting to understand a character's nature in a Peking Opera performance."

Colombian student Karla Valeria Vega Polania tried spear play."Chinese culture is vastly different from my own," she said."This initial experience was very interesting, and I hope to study long-term in China to immerse myself further."

Under professional guidance, the students practiced Tianjin Kuaiban techniques involving delicate arm and wrist movements.

"Two bamboo sticks produce wonderful rhythms and accompaniment. It's amazing," said Bachir El Hamzaouy Delgado from Spain."We admired the teacher's fast-paced performance and applauded enthusiastically."

"This activity combines culture with practical experience," said Wang Hongchang, vice-dean of Nankai University's School of International Education."It enhances students' language skills and deepens their appreciation of traditional Chinese culture."

The event was jointly organized by the Exit and Entry Administration Department of the Tianjin Public Security Bureau and Nankai University.