In addition to traditions and festive symbols, China Media Group's (CMG) 2025 Mid-Autumn Festival Gala will present performances marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
At the gala, singer Zhou Shen and the Sichuan Symphony Orchestra will perform "Return", the theme song of Chinese historical drama series "The Long Way Back."
The TV series is produced by CMG to mark the anniversary, and the song's lyrics, in Chinese and Russian, depicts the touching images of soldiers staying true to their beliefs and aspiring for victory in extremely tough conditions.
The gala will also present three classic songs carrying the memory of the Anti-Fascist War, namely "Flowers in May", "As Time Goes By", and "La Vie en rose". Born respectively in China, the United States, and France, the songs demonstrate the pursuit of happiness by people in different countries amid war and convey their common aspiration for peace and a bright future.
"I've gained a deep understanding that the happiness and well-being of our generation is secured by our predecessors with their flesh and blood, with their tenacious and incomparable perseverance. Music helps pass on this memory to today's young people, so that we don't forget how we got here and how we have happiness now," said Zhang Hanyun, a singer and actress.
The CMG has also invited Time for Three, winner of the 65th Grammy Award for Best Classical Instrumental Solo, to perform two classic songs with Chinese singer Jike Junyi, using music as a universal language that transcends cultures to create the shared feeling of companionship.
"I hope the audience can sense the romance and zest in this song. It's a performance with rich feelings," said Jike.
"And it was very much a collaboration and we feel like is a direct reflection of this festival, of bringing people together, bringing family together," said Nick Kendall, violinist of Time for Three.
The gala has completed filming in Deyang, southwest China's Sichuan Province. It will air at 20:00 on Monday via CCTV channels and the CMG's global platforms.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a traditional Chinese celebration, held on the 15th day of the eighth month on the Chinese lunar calendar. It is when the moon is at its fullest, symbolizing family reunion. This year, the day falls on Oct 6.
CMG's 2025 Mid-Autumn gala dedicates progammes to 80th anniversary of WWII victory
