Male chorus "Nanni Bay" brought the smell of China's Loess Plateau to the audience, with all singers wearing sheepskin vests and white towels on their heads.

Xiangsheng or crosstalk, a traditional Chinese comedic performing art, by Wang Bo and Zhang Shuo drew waves of laughter continuously.

Zeng Yan, who has lived in Chicago for more than eight years, said the gala was very successful, and she really enjoyed the performances.

"I've heard quite a lot of art troupes in Chicago were making great efforts to organize this gala," she said. "I totally understand this feeling and share their affection toward our motherland. I wish China continued prosperity."

The gala was hosted by the Chicago Chinese Performance Arts and co-organized by several other art troupes in Chicago.