It’s 2020, which means we have not only entered a new year but are now into a new decade. Who knows what the next ten years may bring? It is practically impossible to plan for 2029 but it is possible to plan a few weeks ahead and with that in mind, Sternberg Clarke is offering a selection of possible entertainment ideas for both Burns Night and Chinese New Year, which this year happen to fall on the same day meaning that there will be a host of 'Chinese Burns' jokes on the 25th January.
When it comes to celebrating an occasion, there is nothing quite like the sound of the bagpipes. Not only will Sternberg Clarke's bagpipers play all of the songs most associated with the instrument, they will also be in national costume. An absolute must for your event this year.
An ancient Chinese tradition, the dragon dance is another option – and one that is said to ward off evil spirits. Dating back to 206 AD, it used to be used to worship ancestors and pray for rain. Mostly performed for entertainment, a show features at least twelve dancers who help to make the dragon 'dance'. If you don’t quite have room for a dragon dance – they can be up to fifty people in length! – then a traditional Lion Dance might be the entertainment for you instead. Comprising of two people dancing inside the costume, it is traditionally performed to bring good luck and fortune.
Sternberg Clarke also offers a Zhezhi artist. The Chinese art of paper folding focuses less on birds and flowers seen in Origami – the Japanese name for paper folding – and more on using paper to create small boats and hats. Whether you call it Zhezhi or Origami, it is a truly elegant way to celebrate.
A fourth option is the Ceilidh. There is nothing much better than this traditional dance as guests celebrate their culture, a new year or a wedding. A traditional ceilidh band features a fiddle, flute, tin whistle and accordion but nowadays you may see fewer performers as well as newer instruments included.
Lastly, Sternberg Clarke suggests traditional whisky tasting. A whisky tasting experience is perfect for those who wish to know more about what they are drinking, and Sternberg Clarke's experts have a selection of Scotches to choose from, guaranteeing that you will come away feeling merry.