On a winter night in Lancaster, as lanterns glow against the dark and families drift towards the theatre, a familiar tradition returns – but this year, it’s bigger, brighter and braver than ever.
For the fifth year running, the Culture Variety Show transforms Lancaster Grand Theatre into a meeting point of past and present: temple drums and city lights, ancient stories and new beginnings. At 7.30pm on 31 January 2026, the curtain rises on a journey through martial arts, music, dance and song – all in one unforgettable evening to welcome the Lunar New Year.
Featuring:
Shaolin Kung Fu Showcase – Shaolin Kung Fu & Tai Chi Centre
Explosive kicks, weapon forms and acrobatic sequences that combine discipline, strength and breathtaking speed.
Kunqu Opera Performance – Chloe Sun (Sun Xiaohe)
A fifth-generation inheritor of China’s oldest opera tradition, bringing silk-sleeve movement, poetic gesture and crystal-clear vocals to the Lancaster stage.
Youth Chinese Orchestra
A lush, cinematic soundscape with erhu, pipa, bamboo flutes and festival drums, performed by talented young musicians.
Professional Dance Ensembles
Choreography that glides from classical Chinese elegance to contemporary fusion and street-inspired routines in a heartbeat.
Vocal Soloists & Cross-Cultural Collaborations
Powerhouse singers reimagining classics, folk songs and modern hits – blending East and West in fresh, exciting arrangements.
5th Anniversary Ensemble Finale
A roof-raising closing piece uniting kung fu artists, dancers, orchestra and singers in a blaze of colour, rhythm and celebration.
Whether this is your first visit or your yearly New Year ritual, you’re part of the story that’s brought us to this fifth anniversary.
Book your tickets now and begin your Lunar New Year with a spectacular night at Lancaster Grand Theatre. Let's celebrate together !
Also check out other Music events in Lancaster, Entertainment events in Lancaster, Arts events in Lancaster.
