Summer festival unveils spectacular lineup in Beijing

The annual Gateway to Arts summer festival is set to enchant audiences from July 5 to Aug 31 at the Forbidden City Concert Hall in Beijing. This two-month extravaganza will showcase 65 live performances, 11 mini-summer camps, and 15 charity events, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts of all ages.

Established in 1995, the festival has become a summer staple for families in Beijing, offering a diverse array of art forms including classical music, traditional Chinese operas, dance performances, and puppet shows. Renowned art troupes such as the Beijing Symphony Orchestra, the National Ballet of China, and the Beijing Chinese Orchestra will grace the stage, featuring talented soloists like Wu Yuxia, Wang Zhongshan and Wang Zhen.

International flair will also be on display as artists from around the globe, including Polish violinist Robert Kabara, Italian pianist Andrea Molteni, and French percussionist Bartek Miler, join the festivities. A special highlight of this year's program will be a series of 20 live performances celebrating China's rich musical heritage, featuring traditional art forms like Kunqu Opera, Peking Opera, and ancient instruments like guqin and pipa.

Moreover, the festival will continue its tradition of hosting mini-summer camps for young music enthusiasts, providing valuable learning experiences under the guidance of seasoned musicians and artists. From choral singing to Chinese musical instruments, these educational programs aim to inspire the next generation of performers.

In addition to Beijing, the festival will also extend its reach to Tianjin and cities in Hebei province, including Tangshan, Baoding, and Hengshui, promising a summer filled with artistic delights for audiences across the region.