Lyric Theatre & Cultura Arts Center, 300 East Third Street, Lexington, KY 40508

2026(3rd) Annual Mandarin Language Exhibition

Saturday, March 28, 2026

Register Now

ABOUT THE CONTEST

The Mandarin Language Exhibition is designed to inspire passion and interest in Mandarin Chinese among young learners while providing a platform to deepen their understanding of Chinese language and culture. As BGEMS' flagship program, the exhibition welcomes students from across the U.S. to compete in various categories for prizes, recognition, and a celebration of their language-learning achievements.

Competition Categories

• Speech/Recitation Competition
• Song Competition
• Talent Competition: Showcase Chinese cultural talents and comprehensive learning abilities (dance, instrument performance, painting demo, acting, etc.).

Participants

• Open to non-native Chinese speakers (no heritage students).
• Students in elementary, middle, high schools, and college students from U.S. schools.
• Participants must be recommended by their Mandarin language teacher.

COMPETITION STRUCTURE

• Mandarin Speech/Recitation: Participants choose any theme for a 3-minute presentation.
• Talent Competition (3-minute limit per performance): Dance/Instrument/Painting demonstration
• Song Competition (3-minute limit per performance)
(Competition sessions will be adjusted based on the number of participants. Final schedules
will be shared post-registration.)

Judging Process

• Judging panels will consist of esteemed Mandarin language experts.
• Judges will use standardized rubric to score participants.
• Multiple rounds will determine winners for each category and level (elementary, middle, high school).
• Judges are independent professionals to ensure fairness.

AWARDS

Individual Awards

1st Place: Gold Medal + $100 Cash Prize
2nd Place: Silver Medal + Certificate of Participation
3rd Place: Bronze Medal + Certificate of Participation

Teacher Award

For each student that places in a category, the corresponding teacher will receive the same Medal color minus the Certificate of Participation.

Excellent Tutor Award

Trophy + $500 Cash for teachers with the highest-ranked students.

Outstanding Group Award

Trophy + $750 Cash for schools with the highest participation and achievements.

GRAND Prize Winners

All 1st Place prize winners will perform on-stage, in their category (regardless of level) for their chance to be the “GRAND Prize Winner.” A fresh panel of “Esteemed Judges” will view the performances for the first time, and collectively select the “GRAND Prize winner” in each category (regardless of level), and they will receive: A Championship Belt + $250/Cash

REGISTRATION DETAILS

Deadline:
Teachers must submit completed school registration forms by February 20, 2026, to [email protected].

Registration Fee:
• $5 per participant.
• All participants receive a T-shirt, small gift, and lunch.
• Additional lunches can be purchased on the event day for $10 each.

IMPORTANT NOTES

• Teachers must ensure all school protocols for off-campus events (e.g., parental permission, transportation) are followed.
• BGEMS/CIWKY aims to foster partnerships and opportunities, including internships and research collaborations. For inquiries, contact:
○ Terrill Martin
○ Phone: (270) 792-9330
○ Email: [email protected]

SUPPORT AND COLLABORATION

BGEMS encourages your support to make this event successful for students, schools, and educators. The Mandarin Language Exhibition reflects BGEMS' mission to advance Mandarin language education while celebrating cultural exchange and academic excellence.