A dazzling three-hour performance staged by a Chinese troupe attracted more than 4,000 people and won raving applause Friday night.

The troupe was on a tour of North America to celebrate the Spring Festival and show Americans the appealing power of Chinese culture.

The annual global event was held in about 10 major countries with Chinese emigrants during the traditional Lunar New Year month. The performances received much recognition not only from the overseas Chinese community, but also from mainstream societies all over the world.

Several famous artists performed at the Chicago show, including popular male singer Yang Weiwen, female soprano Meng Ge and Lei Jia, Chen Jun, the Master Erhu Player in China. Some audience members also went on stage to sing and dance with the performers.

Among the audience was Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White; Gene Lee, the deputy chief of staff for Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, and Daniel Solis, alderman of Chicago's 25th Ward.

(Xinhua News Agency March 6, 2010)