Phuket puts on spectacular Chinese New Year show

PHUKET: Chinese New Year kicked off with a hail of fireworks and live performances by acrobats, dancers and some of Thailand’s top musical acts at Sanaam Chai field in Phuket Town yesterday evening.

The event, hosted by the Phuket Provincial Administration Organization (OrBorJor), started at 4pm and saw thousands of people turn out for the food and entertainment.

“This event is a Chinese New Year gift for Phuket’s residents of Chinese descent, Thai residents and tourists alike,” said OrBorJor President Paiboon Upatising.

After the opening ceremony, led by Wichai Srikwan, the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Board Chairman, Chinese acrobats from Puyang City wowed the audience. Those who did not brave the throng of children near the stage watched the show on the jumbo video screen behind the performers.

The celebration continued with video presentations and dancers representing the 1,000-handed Chinese goddess Guan Yin.

Things heated up when fireworks launched into the sky from both sides of the audience.

After the smoke cleared, Ruth The Star, winner of reality TV show The Star, Beck Palitchoke and Thai pop band G20 took their turns pleasing the crowd.

— Pimwara Choksakulpan