On 19 September, the Confucius Institute at De Montfort University (DMU CI), in partnership with Derek and his local Tai Chi team, hosted a Mid-Autumn Festival celebration at Leicester Town Hall Square.
The event began with a 45-minute Tai Chi warm-up led by Tai Chi team, inviting local residents and Tai Chi enthusiasts to take part. Set to soothing traditional Chinese music, participants moved through the exercises together as team members demonstrated the movements and techniques. A number of passers-by were also drawn into the atmosphere and joined the session, creating a harmonious scene of movement and stillness that reflected the distinctive character of Tai Chi.
The warm-up was followed by a series of performances. Derek’s team presented a lively lion dance, accompanied by the energetic beat of drums and gongs. The lion leapt and danced across the square, occasionally interacting with members of the audience. The lively performance drew cheers from the crowd and brought the celebration to its first highlight.
DMU CI’s volunteer teachers then performed Tai Chi fan performance, marking their first public appearance in Leicester. With graceful, flowing movements and carefully coordinated fan work, the performance attracted numerous passers-by, many of whom stopped to watch, take photographs and record videos.
The programme continued with a dynamic Qiang (spear) performance by Derek’s Tai Chi team. With spears sweeping through the air and precise, controlled movements, the performance offered another glimpse into the rich traditions of Tai Chi.
The celebration concluded with all performers and Tai Chi enthusiasts gathering in the square for a group photograph, bringing the community cultural event to a close.
Led by CI’s Director Zhang Yi, the whole CI staff, members of Derek’s Tai Chi team and more than 100 local residents and Tai Chi enthusiasts took part in the celebration.
Posted on Monday 5 October 2026