That was the 6th consecutive year I attended the Banquet.
I was a little bit sad for not seeing the familiar faces that I was accustomed to for the last five years although I knew that they were not attend.

I could not talk well. The new acquaintances did not know what topics they should start with although we were mainly senior citizens. I later was delighted to hear them talking about the latest technologies of SDMC (Secure Digital Memory Card). They started mentioning about the cassette tape and then video tape. They talked about the video disc and then the SDM Card. I was rather surprised. People usually think that elderly are not able to follow the advancement of technologies. But that was the first time to know that SDM Cards are replacing the video disc for opera.

Every year when I attended the Multisensory Liyuan Banquet, I enjoyed the dinner with surprise. Although I took most of my meals as a vegetarian, but the dishes provided by Tim Palace were excellent and delicious. I took every dish and that was rare for me.

When the stage performance started, the waiters would temporary stop serving the dish. The purpose was for us to enjoy the performance. But many of us still kept the mouths working - chatting. I thought the new and old friends tried to catch up with each other for the rare opportunity. That was a problem we have to handle.

After watching the performance of Li YaXian (《李亞仙》), I observed that Siong Leng Musical Association recruited young people and gave them opportunities for stage performance. I was glad with the Association.

Five years ago, I used to help some Opera Groups. I was not happy to spend hours to persuade the character of 'lady beggar' putting on the costume with patches.
Some key persons of the group would grasp the chance to be the key character of the performance. No opportunity for the newcomers. They did not train the newcomers and thought that there was no hope for the Chinese Opera.
When going overseas for performance, I mentioned that could apply for fund. I heard the answer immediately that it was no point to apply. You did not even like to try or ask how to apply. You thought I had to give the money for you directly!
I was disappointed with some personnel and I gradually did not wish to help voluntarily any more.

I was glad to see the improvement of Siong Leng Musical Association. They were getting better and better.
I did not see any stage performance for the last few years, even if my friends bought the tickets for me.
But, I tried my best to attend the three performances by Siong Leng at Thian Hock Keng (天福宮) and the annual Master Lang Jun Anniversary Banquet.