Viennese waltz comes to Beijing at Kempinski

Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa Center has announced it will hold its annual waltz gala, the Kempinski Vienna Ball Beijing, on April 21, to bring a jewel of Austrian culture to China.

The hotel has organized the grand event annually for the last three years. This year, the ball will again uphold Austrian tradition in Beijing and establish a bridge for cultural exchanges between the two countries.

On the night of April 21, the Original Wiener Strauss Capelle, an Austrian orchestra with hundreds of years of history, will stage a live performance, and former principal dancers of the Vienna State Ballet will act as art directors.

Celebrated dance instructor and former state opera solo dancer Heinz Heidenreich will provide his professional guidance for guests and help them to perform the waltz on the night. Heidenreich will teach every step of the amusing dance to those who want to try it out themselves.

The exclusive ball will be accompanied by a gourmet feast. The gala dinner will feature rare and traditional Austrian cuisine. Premium Austrian wines and snacks will be on offer throughout the event.

Vienna is a European city with a long history and rich culture. The waltz, coffee and music are regarded as the "three treasures" of the city.

Since the 16th century, the tradition of holding balls has been deeply rooted in people's lives. Each year in January and February, more than 450 balls are held all over the city. At least one ball is held in the city every night during the period. They are regarded as common as carnivals among residents.

Vienna Mayor Michael Haeupl and his wife will join in this year's Kempinski Vienna Ball Beijing, according to Friedrich Stift, the ambassador of Austria to China.

Torsten Dressler, managing director of Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa Center, said the hotel is deeply rooted in the European tradition.

"For us, to organize such a Vienna ball and to team up with the city of Vienna is a perfect match in our understanding of our tradition," Dressler said.

He added that he hopes many people in Beijing will take this opportunity to experience Viennese culture during the wonderful night, taste the differences between the Chinese and European cultures, and develop friendships with people coming together.

liyou@chinadaily.con.cn

(China Daily 03/31/2018 page10)