Open the floodgates

The China National Center for the Performing Arts (NCPA) is determined to cover its opening season with a majestic aura. The Mariinsky Theater raised the season's curtain with the opera Prince Igor on Christmas Day and this week the Capitole Theater of Toulouse wraps up the program with another legendary opera Le Roi d'Ys (King of the Ys). The grand production features France's top opera stars and 13-tonnes of water, which is used to create a dramatic finale.

Sounds of the seasons paint a big picture

China's beautiful conservation areas are being presented to the world through magical performances featuring live classical music and pictures.

Young designers call on tradition to make their mark

Ancient Chinese calligraphy was the dominant theme at the opening show of China's International Fashion Week, which finished yesterday.

Life Expat

How to keep it kosher

Last week, Jews around the world celebrated Purim, one of the most important holidays on the Jewish calendar. At this time, Jews recall their escape from an evil plan hatched by a Persian minister to annihilate them. They wear costumes, drink copiously, put on plays, give gifts to each other and donations to the poor.

Religious beliefs make meal time decisions easy

Food is one of first topics you learn about when you move to a new country, or learn a new language. In China, where everything from the staple foods to the cutlery is different from the West, foreigners are frequently met with the question: "Are you used to eating Chinese food yet?"

Your say

There's no excuse!

Home to Hannibal, inspiration for Star Wars

When scouring the planet in search of suitable scenery for the fictitious Star Wars city of Tatooine, director George Lucas ultimately decided that "the force" was strong with Tunisia.

Life Travel

An ideal break

In a fast-changing country like China, people must adjust their plans to keep pace with the changing situation from time to time. As the government has revamped the country's holiday schedule this year, so must we.

Puff on a cigar, over a lip-smacking hotpot

I do not smoke and I hate second-hand smoke in public spaces. However, when asked about my hometown, I often proudly reply: "I come from Shifang, the home of Chinese cigars."

Hidden treasures of Xanadu

In Xanadu did Kubla Khan