China has been the subject of many discussions in the West. On the one hand China’s economic power frightens, on the other hand many enterprises expect to make lucrative business with China. The politics is of similar ambivalence in relation to the “Middle Kingdom”: On the one hand human rights violations of the Chinese government should be addressed (from the Austrian Green Party’s view they must be!), on the other hand, economic interests often restrain a decisive political action.

As the Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria, the connection between people and intercultural exchange is an important concern for me. It pleases me that the “Shen Yun Chinese Spectacular” can be seen for the first time in Austria, especially in the European year of intercultural dialog. I wish the organizers and the artists, who give us a close look to the rich Chinese culture in all of its variations, a great success. I also wish a fascinating cultural experience to all the visitors.

Dear Sir and Madam! Dear visitors!

"Xin Nian hao!" or merry New Year! Let me first wish you much luck, health and success for the still young year of the rat (since Februar 7th 2008) – May luck be with you and your families!

As an integration spokeswoman of the SPOe I highly welcome that the Gala "Shen Yun Chinese Spectacular" is presented for the first time in Austria. I personally support the exchange of information about other cultures. What I particularly like is that the Gala allows us to get a view of the thousands of years of traditional art and culture of China.

That ArsCara brings the "Shen Yun Chinese Spectacular" 2008 to Austria for the first time is a valuable indication of the interconnection between ethnic groups. In particular, I congratulate the show for giving the audience an authentic view into the traditional customs of China dating back 5000 years.