Source: CCTV.com

01-24-2009 08:43

These days, many Chinese book restaurants to hold their family feast on the eve of the lunar New Year. Many people want to start their dinners at six, or even earlier. That's because they can go back home in time to catch the opening of the spring festival gala broadcast on CCTV. In the run-up to the annual extravaganza, many guesses are made as to who will perform in the gala, and which acts will be the best.

From simple sets and simple programs in its 1983 debut, to the modern spectacle that dazzles your eyes, the Spring Festival Gala has come a long way in twenty six years. Although there are more choices than ever before on the eve of the festival, the gala is still must-watch TV program for most Chinese.

An audience said, "I like to watch the gala, because it's a lot of fun. I want to watch Zhao Benshan's comic sketch. I heard he will perform with his apprentice Xiao Shen Yang this time. I can't wait to see it."

"I like the gala, because I can see a lot of charming pop stars. Last year I saw Jolin Tsai. This year I expect there will be more."

"Watching the gala is one of my activities to do during the spring festival."

"To older Chinese, the gala is essential viewing, especially when their kids are not around. It is an essential part of our life during the spring festival."

"I hope the gala has some unexpected revelations."

The gala has to be updated every year, and can't just be a larger version of the other galas that are held throughout the year. It's even more important because some say the gala has lost its dominance now that there are a plethora of other options, unlike in the 1980s when it was the only gala on television.

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