The ninth Asian Winter Games is less than a month away from taking place in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. As the chief director of both the opening and closing ceremonies, Sha Xiaolan has promised audiences a spectacular show on February 7.
\"The overall progress has been very smooth,\" Sha told China Media Group (CMG). \"We started rehearsals for individual segments at the main venue in December, and I'm pleased to say that this phase has been successfully completed.\"
Sha and his creative team were in charge of the ceremonies for the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Beijing in 2022. After an excellent performance three years ago, they aim to replicate that success at the Asian Winter Games.
\"We are now moving on to the next stage, where we will integrate all the segments together for a cohesive performance,\" Sha explained. \"Our aim is to present a simple, yet spectacular and safe opening ceremony that resonates with the theme of this event: 'Dream of Winter, Love among Asia.' Iconic landmarks of Harbin, such as Central Avenue, Ice and Snow World, and Music Square, have profoundly inspired our creative team. These elements will be woven into the fabric of the opening ceremony, showcasing the enchanting charm of Harbin.\"
A total of 1,275 athletes from 34 countries and regions, including Cambodia and Saudi Arabia making their Asian Winter Games debut, have registered for Harbin 2025. This edition is expected to feature the highest number of participants in the event's history.
Reference(s):
Harbin prepares for spectacular Asian Winter Games opening ceremony
cgtn.com
