Â鶹Íø

Â鶹Íø Confucius Institute Brings Tai Chi to Leicester’s Town Hall Square

On Sunday 26 April, the Confucius Institute at Â鶹Íø, in partnership with local traditional martial arts groups, hosted a vibrant Tai Chi celebration at Leicester’s Town Hall Square to mark this year’s International Tai Chi Day.

The event gathered over 50 participants, including all Â鶹Íø CI faculty members, Master Derek’s Traditional Martial Arts Team, Tai Chi enthusiasts, and local residents eager to experience the artistry of this ancient practice. Master Derek’s team led a serene group warm-up, set to traditional Chinese music, followed by a collective performance of the Yang-style 13-form Tai Chi. A dynamic workshop then introduced key movements from both the 13-form and 21-form sequences, encouraging enthusiastic participation from the crowd.

The festivities continued with a spirited lion dance performance by Master Derek’s team, as the lively red lion, animated by rhythmic drumming, captivated the audience. Volunteer teachers from Â鶹Íø CI further delighted spectators with an elegant Tai Chi fan dance, seamlessly blending strength and grace.

A joyful group photo concluded the celebrations, symbolizing the spirit of unity and shared cultural appreciation.

This successful event is part of Â鶹Íø Confucius Institute’s ongoing commitment to bridging Chinese and British cultures through immersive experiences. By promoting Tai Chi’s universal values of harmony, health, and joy—recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage—Â鶹Íø CI continues to foster meaningful cultural exchange within the community.