The finale of "Multi-Cultural Bridge" International Cultural Exchange Week, Fudan international students cultural gala, unfolded at Fudan University in Shanghai on May 24. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

On the evening of May 24, the grand finale of the "Multi-Cultural Bridge" International Cultural Exchange Week for the Fudan international students cultural gala unfolded at the Wu Wenzheng Lecture Hall in Guanghua Building of Fudan University, where students from 28 countries across five continents united in a harmonious chorus of youthful vitality.

The event kicked off with martial arts and dance performances, showcasing the dynamic movements and elegant techniques of Chinese martial arts. Loke Sandvall from Sweden, an avid martial art enthusiast, praised the art form as not just a physical exercise but also a profound window into Chinese culture. Then there was a poetry recital of renowned Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai's masterpieces, including "Drinking Alone by Moonlight".

The finale of "Multi-Cultural Bridge" International Cultural Exchange Week, Fudan international students cultural gala, unfolded at Fudan University in Shanghai on May 24. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Music is a common topic all over the world. Korean students interpreted the Chinese classic "Butterfly Lovers" on violin and cello, while the upbeat tempo of "Dancing Queen" from the musical "Mamma Mia!" had the audience clapping along, elevating the atmosphere.

Though confronted with a massive challenge in mastering the dialect and singing, students immersed themselves in Chinese traditional operas including Yue Opera and Peking Opera as they played a classic role of Jia Baoyu and Yang Yuhuan, showcasing the fusion of diverse cultures through melodious renditions.

The finale of "Multi-Cultural Bridge" International Cultural Exchange Week, Fudan international students cultural gala, unfolded at Fudan University in Shanghai on May 24. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Local performances from the home countries of international students stirred up the deep-seated pride for motherland. Malaysian students presented the mesmerizing ethnic instrumental performance "Rhythms of the Heartstrings", blending strings and drums in a captivating display of artistry. Traditional dances and songs from Malaysia, Indonesia, Mongolia, India, Bulgaria, Pakistan, Russia, Africa, Thailand, China and more, performed by students adorned in their respective national costumes, celebrated the prosperity of multiculturalism to thunderous applause and cheers.

The finale of "Multi-Cultural Bridge" International Cultural Exchange Week, Fudan international students cultural gala, unfolded at Fudan University in Shanghai on May 24. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In addition to the gala, the week-long "Multi-Cultural Bridge" events included an exhibition of global cultural essence, traditional attire fashion shows and food experiences from different countries, fostering a vibrant and inclusive campus culture at this prestigious university.

The finale of "Multi-Cultural Bridge" International Cultural Exchange Week, Fudan international students cultural gala, unfolded at Fudan University in Shanghai on May 24. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]