1st ACCA Reunion successfully finished
Cirque de Chine successfully completed its first annual Adopted Chinese Children’s Reunion on Saturday, July 11, 2009, at the Smoky Mountain Palace Theater in Sevierville, TN. There were more than 800 in attendance during the day.
The day’s activities began with approximately 15 different traditional Chinese cultural games, held both inside and outside the theater, for the special guest; the adopted Chinese children. Traditional games such as Chopsticks Transferring Game, Paper Folding and Window Pattern Cutting, Hula-Hoop, Chinese Calligraphy, Moving Marbles With Chopsticks and others delighted the children to the point that squeals and laughter were the common sound through out the theater.
At noon all the adopted families had the opportunity to experience a Chinese buffet lunch with authentic Chinese food. Among the various dishes, the Yangzhou Fried Rice and the Sweet and Sour Pork appeared to be the favorites. One lady insisted on meeting the chef in person just to relate how delicious the food was and how much it was enjoyed.
The highlight of the day came in the afternoon when Cirque de Chine presented its show; beginning with the Jung Jo Drums and Dragon Dance and ending two hours later with the Flying Motorcycles and a standing ovation.
It was almost total agreement among the families that a great time was had by all at the reunion. They felt that is was very meaningful that their adopted Chinese children not only learned some of their heritage and Chinese culture, but that they were able to meet other families and see that their situation of having white parents was normal. They especially enjoyed being around other Chinese children.
For those involved with the theater, the Adopted Chinese Children’s Reunion was our contribution in a special way of saying “Thank you” to those families who have adopted Chinese children and given them the love they deserve. Everyone was moved by the special bond between parents and the adopted children. The meaning of the day was given by a little girl who, as she exited the theater, turned to her mother and said, “Mommy, I will always remember today.” The purpose of the day was well served.
The Adopted Chinese Children Reunion will return next year. It will be bigger, it will be better.
For more information about next years reunion or any suggestion, you can reach Grace Zhao at 865-429-1601 or 800-826-2933 ext 228, or email reunion@cirquedechine.com. The photos and videos of the 1st reunion will be released soon.
We look forward to see you again!