The clinking of glasses, the swirl of traditional costumes, and the buzz of conversation filled a Birmingham banquet hall on as the city marked the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
The celebration, organised by The China National Day Committee Midlands UK, brought together a diverse crowd – families, business leaders, students and civic dignitaries – all united by a shared spirit of festivity.
Included was Birmingham solicitor and playwright Ian Henery. Ian has been successful in getting a third Arts Council England grant to chronicle and celebrate the migration of people from China to Birmingham over the past 100 years.
Guests were welcomed by colourful dance performances, rich in symbolism and artistry, setting a joyful tone for the evening. The entertainment continued with musical interludes and heartfelt speeches, many of which reflected on China’s journey since 1949 and the growing friendship between the Chinese community and Birmingham.
Ian`s first play, funded by Arts Council England, was The Chinese Labour Corps which was staged for a week at The Blue Orange Theatre in Birmingham. It was then streamed across Birmingham by the Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee.
Among the distinguished attendees were Birmingham’s First Citizen, Cllr Zafar Iqbal MBE, Clive Reeves DL, Irene Chu, Anna Yim, Steven Pun, Ian Henery, Irene and Stephen Ting, Tony Vuong, Councillor Alex Yip, Faye Van Heeren, Michele Wilby, Ken Tong, Tom Li, Wei Du, Ms Jiang Lei and Mr Bak Hay Yau. Their presence highlighted the importance of the occasion, not just for the Chinese diaspora but for the wider Midlands community.
The evening was hosted by three young comperes – Leon Steer, Rosalind Yang and Qiaoyu Chen – whose energy and poise brought a modern touch to a night rooted in tradition.
Dinner was a feast of flavours, reflecting both China’s culinary heritage and the Midlands’ vibrant food scene. A raffle added to the atmosphere, sparking excitement and laughter across the tables.
Sponsors including Ohana8, Hainan Airlines, PandaFresh, China Mobile, Fresh Asia and local casinos played a key role in supporting the event.
For many in attendance, the night was not only a commemoration of China’s founding, but also a reminder of the city’s multicultural spirit – one in which communities come together to celebrate milestones, share traditions and build connections.
