The Spirit of the Orient takes visitors through a fascinating journey of art and music at Ibn Battuta Mall

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The Spirit of the Orient takes visitors through a fascinating journey of art and music at Ibn Battuta Mall

Visitors to Ibn Battuta Mall during the ongoing Dubai Shopping Festival are enjoying world-class entertainment from China as The Spirit of the Orient show brings to the forefront traditional Chinese art and enchanting musical instruments at the malls China Court.

Donned in colourful traditional costumes, the cast of 25 international female artists from China including dancers, musicians and calligraphers have been captivating audiences during the hour-long shows. Featuring lively music, the show brings to life elements of Chinese culture and art such as drumming, Chinese instruments made of crystal and porcelain and stunning giant calligraphy in ways that will mesmerize every member of the family.

The Spirit of the Orient , which runs until 17 January is divided into 5 exciting segments - Mask Changing, Live Musicians, The Art of Tea Making, Calligraphy & Traditional Dance and the most anticipated National Dance as its finale.

Mazdak, a 30-year-old Iranian, who was visiting Ibn Battuta Mall with his brother Arash, said: I wish it didnt end. It was glorious. They were dancing with their black, red and golden costumes and I really felt their enthusiasm in offering an exciting performance.

His older brother Arash commented: It wasnt just the dance but its also those tambourines, percussions, violins and woodwinds and other traditional instruments that they used for the entire show. They made it so spectacular.

It touched me, it touched our spirits. The title of the show is an apt description of their performance. Its superb. said Irish Rey , a 29 year-old from The Philippines while Louie Bert, also from the Philippines said that they were fortunate to be around for the final show.

Before, I just go to the malls to hang out with my friends, eat and watch movies but because of DSF, it is much more exciting said Basma, a teenager from Egypt . There were many fashion labels, branded bags and shoes on sale with unbelievable price reductions plus an incredible show like The Spirit of the Orient that we really enjoyed for free Basma said.

DSF 2015 is organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), and will run until 1 February 2015 under the theme A Journey of Celebrations, offering more than 150 citywide attractions and mega events, numerous shopping opportunities and winning options for visitors from around the world.