Editor’s Note: This is the first of a series of reports in this special column launched by Shenzhen Daily and Shenzhen University (SZU) to provide readers with a glimpse into the lives of international students studying at SZU. The column will also cover content related to international teachers, conferences, cooperation and activities, among others. All the stories will be coming from the students of SZU’s College of International Studies.

Yang Jie

1597775373@qq.com

THE Sino-French poetry recital titled “Chanting the Same Poem” concluded at 9 p.m. Sunday at the International Conference Hall of Shenzhen University (SZU). The event has attracted over 200 guests and visitors, including students and teachers.

At the opening ceremony, Stéphane Joly, president of the French Union, said that he would like to express his sincere gratitude to all the teachers and students who have worked hard for this activity, which allowed audiences to enjoy the poetry feast together.

Cao Saixian, director general of the Shenzhen Municipal Foreign Affairs Office, said that both China and France have a long history of poetry and a strong poetic atmosphere. “Although their languages and characters differ, the poets’ expression is the same, using poetry to portray sceneries, express feelings and show their aspirations,” she added.

Cao also expressed her wish that everyone could absorb energy from poetry, make friends via poetry, and contribute to promoting the exchange of ideas and friendly dialogue between the Chinese and French people.

Zhang Xiaohong, vice president of SZU, appreciated all the organizers and participants for their support and efforts, and she hoped the participants enjoyed the recital and learned something from it.

The recital began with a folk music ensemble divided into three forms, namely Chinese poetry recitation, French poetry recitation and alternate Chinese and French poetry reading.

The performance director cleverly set up a group of Chinese and French students as background characters to lead the audience across the ancient and modern, through China and France, and immerse themselves in the unique charm of Sino-French cultural integration.

At the end of “Clarifying Heart with the Moon” and “Expressing Feelings to Poetry,” the SZU Art Troupe staged two traditional Chinese art programs — a sand painting titled “Moonlight Over the Lotus Pond” and a folk music dance titled “Beautiful Myth.” These were brilliantly portrayed, with creative arrangements featuring lights and sounds to completely convey the strength and warmth of traditional Chinese art.

Awards were bestowed to some students for their excellent performances at the end of the event.

The event was jointly organized by the Shenzhen People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, Shenzhen Universiade International Scholarship Foundation and the College of International Studies of SZU.