Ding Wei, secretary-general of the organizing committee, and also director of the MOC International Department, said there will be a record number of cultural programs of unprecedented quality. A total of 37 foreign artistic troupes and over 20 domestic troupes will be invited to participate in performances, exhibitions, outdoor concerts and international forums. The 3rd International Piano Competition of China will be held during the gala.

The 4th "Meet in Beijing" will open with the Irish tap dance opera Riverdance and close with the renowned Broadway musical Cats, involving many first-class troupes and artists.

Zhang Yu, president of the China Performing Arts Agency, the chief sponsor of the gala, said performances and exhibitions will meet international standards. To ensure a high-impact Riverdance performance, the Capital Gymnasium in Beijing will undergo large-scale reconstruction and use floors especially brought in from abroad.

The concept of "Guest of Honor" will be introduced with Russia bringing its national music and dance. A two-month painting exhibition of Russian artists will be held in the China Centenary Altar, displaying masterpieces of nearly 200 artists. Experts believe that the classical painting aspect of the show is the best ever held in China.

To accommodate large Chinese audiences, 38 outdoor concerts will be will be arranged in two major parks and three city squares in Beijing from May 1 to June 1.

The International Culture Forum will invite experts and government officials to discuss "hot" cultural topics. Domestic and overseas entrepreneurs, represented by Haier CEO Zhang Ruimin, will also be invited to give a speech on "culture vs. administration".

Zhang Yu said "Meet in Beijing" has launched a publicity campaign via theaters, city squares and media. The official website of the gala, launched last year, will soon add an English version.

(Xinhua News Agency March 28, 2003)