Actors dressed as ancient Chinese statesmen read poetry at a poetry recital gala held in Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province on Sept 24. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A poetry recital gala was held in Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province on Sept 24 in celebration of the 1,200th anniversary of the city's official founding. 

The gala showcased classic and modern poetry depicting the development of Ningbo throughout the ages through recitals, dancing and singing.

The event was divided into four parts. The first part illustrated ancient Ningbo through poems written by famous statesmen such as Wang Anshi and Sima Guang. The second part showed the history of Ningbo as a port city, and the third part introduced Tianyi Pavilion, the oldest intact private library in the country. In the last part, a modern poem was presented by 20 residents and actors reflecting on the city's 1,200-year development history and looking ahead to the future. 

The event was held at Tianyi Pavilion & Moon Lake Scenic Spot in Haishu district, a national 5A scenic attraction, and two stages featuring ancient and modern elements were set up.

Dancers perform at a poetry recital gala held in Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province on Sept 24. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]