The 2007 Jinan International Humor Art Week opened on Friday, October 19, 2007, in Shandong Province.

The 2007 Jinan International Humor Art Week opened on Friday evening in the capital of Shandong Province, featuring performances by artists from the US, Brazil, Argentina, Spain and Russia.

The performers managed to overcome language and culture barriers, winning loud applause from the audience, according to the China News Service.

The event also featured skits and two-man routines by Chinese performers, including Gong Hanlin and Jin Zhu, as well as a national magic competition. A show was also held in the public square, where performers and spectators interacted face-to-face.

Started last year, the Jinan International Humor Art Week aims to increase appreciation of Chinese and foreign comedy as well as to encourage the exchange of international comedy and art.?

A Russian skit being performed during the opening ceremony of the 2007 Jinan International Humor Art Week on Friday, October 19, 2007.

Famous Chinese comedians Gong Hanlin (L) and Jin Zhu (R) perform a skit named 'Between Husband and Wife' at the opening ceremony of the 2007 Jinan International Humor Art Week on Friday, October 19, 2007.

An American performer juggles during the opening ceremony of the 2007 Jinan International Humor Art Week on Friday, October 19, 2007.

(CRI.cn October 21, 2007)