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I remember during the SARS epidemic in June 2003, we were the only arts troupe in the world to visit Hong Kong. Considering the widespread fear of SARS, we were not sure if people would turn up to see our performance. On the day of the show, people came to the Cultural Centre from all over, andone hour before the show they took of their face masks, smiled and exchangedgreetings. We presented our HK compatriots with our donation money one thousand paper cranes that were made by ourselves, and gave them our best wishes on behalf of the people of Mainland China. We also performed the dance "Avakijutesvara Bodhisattva", symbolizing our hope for their protection.Te disabled people on the stage and the HK audience who had struggled withSARS for two months identifed with one another's hardships. Te audience was reluctant to leave at the end of show. Our dignity and value of life would not be daunted by any tragedy.
I remember we once went to perform in Tilanqiao Prison in Shanghai in October 2003. During our talk with the prisoners, I said: "When we heard thawe would be performing for prisoners, I was afraid. But sitting with you today,I feel that we share a lot. Te diference between us is that we are handicapped physically and you spiritually." Te prisoners were all moved by this.
I remember in May 2004, we went to Taiwan again. Taiwanese compatriots loved our performance. We share great afection with them.
I remember that on September 28th, 2004, the Olympic Centre in Athens waseething with excitement when we put on an eight minute show. Te Director of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Paralympics , was flled with emotion and tearfully remarked, that the "Chinese disabled artists played musiin memory of those student spectators who died accidentally while watching a match. Tey also performed the dance "Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva" to bless the human race. It was the most beautiful and incredible of performances". Te Chairman of the International Paralympic Committee said, that "Te performance given by the Chinese disabled people has transformed the closingceremony of the Paralympics in Athens."
I remember at the evening party held by CCTV at the 2005 Spring Festival, we were awarded a special prize for the dance "Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva", and frst prize for song and dance. Tis was the frst time in their 23 year history that this had occurred. I was surprised at how many advertisement andpublicity companies ofered to promote us. When I turned them down, sayingthat we needed quiet space for the dancers, they understood.
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