Vocalist Zhao Yunhong gave a recital of Chinese and Russian songs at the China Conservatory recently, as part of the Chinese Language Year in Russia.

An associate professor with the conservatory and director of the Chinese Diplomats' Choir, Zhao has held more than 80 recitals around the world, and toured more than 20 cities in Russia.

The conservatory recital included traditional Chinese folk songs Flowing Water in a Creek and Longing, as well as a number of Russian songs.

Forum boosts China, Australia film

To facilitate communication between Australian and Chinese film industry professionals, the first Australia-China Film Industry Forum was held in Beijing on Dec 8.

An initiative of the Australian Embassy in Beijing as part of Imagine Australia, the Year of Australian Culture in China, the four-day forum was jointly organized by the embassy and China Film Co-Production Corporation.

The forum was attended by key players in the film industries of both countries, including Han Sanping, chairman of China Film Group Corporation, and Geoff Brown, executive director of the Screen Producers Association of Australia.

Building a leader in charity work

The One Foundation, founded by Chinese Red Cross ambassador Jet Li in 2007, in collaboration with the Handan municipal government, is planning to build itself into the nation's "leading charity city."

Located in the south of Hebei province, Handan is famous for its history and beautiful scenery.

The city is also known for its volunteering spirit, as the Handan Red Cross has more than 60,000 members and 7,000 volunteers.

The launch of the city project saw around 1,000 Handan residents putting on a tai chi performance. Li said charity work, like tai chi, called for patience, strength and passion.

Thai, South Korean actors to share stage

Thai and South Korean actors will be the highlight of the New Year TV Gala of Anhui TV.

Thai TV dramas, as well as those from South Korea, are enjoying popularity among Chinese viewers now.

Thai and South Korean TV actors will join about 300 of their Chinese counterparts to present a variety show on Dec 31 and Jan 1.

Anhui TV has bought eight Thai dramas to broadcast in 2011, and has built a strategic partnership with South Korean TV network KBS. Of the nation's provincial TV stations, Anhui TV is known for the variety of its TV series. Many hit shows have premiered on this station.