Music, art and movement tell the story of a rich and ancient culture through martial arts, costumes, a Chinese garden and gift booths at Safeco Insurance Festál: A Glimpse of China: Chinese Culture and Arts Festival, May 30, 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., at Center House.

Festival goers will partake in cultural traditions covering 5,000 years of Chinese history in this celebration of one of the world's oldest cultures. Gift booths offer authentic Chinese goods, and nationally acclaimed artists from the Northwest and China share their crafts and talents.

Nationally ranked Peking Opera artists Ying Chao Zhang and Yi Guan will perform the Yang Meng Nu Jiang, set in wartime during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD). This Beijing Opera tells the story of Yang family widows who fought against invasions after their husbands died on the battlefield. Beijing Opera has remained one of the most popular forms of entertainment in China. Such a performance is integral to festival's mission to promote local understanding and appreciation for Chinese culture and arts. In addition to the Opera, A Glimpse of China will feature performances by over ten local Chinese groups and a special photo display of the 30th Anniversary of China-U.S. diplomatic relations.

Did you know? With her success at the Beijing Olympic Games, Chinese diver Guo Jingjing became the most decorated female Olympic diver ever with six medals. Jingjing follows in a long line of exceptional female Chinese divers. She started training in competitive diving in 1988, was selected to dive for the Chinese national team in 1992, and first competed at the Olympics in 1996. She earned medals in the 2000, 2004 and 2008 Olympic competitions.

Join us at Safeco Insurance Festál and become a culture carrier (someone who contributes to cultural understanding through the sharing of stories, songs, music, food and family traditions). This festival is produced by Seattle Center in partnership with the Washington Chinese Art Culture Committee. For more information on Safeco Insurance Festál and other Seattle Center programming, click on www.seattlecenter.com.

About Safeco Insurance Festál

Safeco Insurance Festál, presented by Seattle Center in partnership with community organizations, is a year-long series of FREE events that honors the cultural richness and diversity of the Pacific Northwest. Safeco Insurance Festál plays a vital part in Seattle Center efforts to connect our dynamic and varied communities.

This collection of 22 events is presented with the generous support of Safeco Insurance, Wells Fargo, Verizon Wireless and KUOW 94.9 Public Radio. Additional support is provided by The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, The Boeing Company, Seattle Center Fund and the City of Seattle.