--Wonderful Moments from the 2025 Concert Upfordowns China
By Jennifer
October 19, 2025 marks the third annual concert by Upfordowns China’s KLEEKLEE Art Troupe. Last year, I first joined as a volunteer for this mutual-aid group for Down syndrome families. Families traveled from Jilin, Shanghai and beyond—kids of all ages loved the performances, jumped on stage to perform, and the crowd hummed along, filling the air with warmth.
This year’s event took place on Liangzhu Nuancun’s (Warm Village) lawn, next to a pond with farmlands beyond. Farmhouse-style food stalls nearby added a strong rural vibe. Crisp air and a cool breeze made perfect outdoor singing weather.
Check in & Signature
During check-in, attendees signed a joint letter to Baidu Encyclopedia demanding removal of the term "congenital idiocy." Initiated by DSi Ambassador Tang Yifeng and fellow young adults with Down syndrome (Cheng Youkun, Zha Liangkun), the campaign aims to win respect by correcting offensive language on major platforms—all attendees supported it.
Taking Photos with the Lovely Cosplayer
Beautiful people, like scenery, draw natural attention. When a volunteer brought over a cosplayer, the crowd stirred: everyone surrounded her, eager to chat and take photos, their excitement obvious.
Sing, Sing a song
The concert’s warmest moment—group singing—shone this year too. All young adults with Down syndrome took the stage, joined by parents and volunteers (except photographers). They sang their hearts out, and we believe tomorrow will be better, as we prayed and sang.
KLEEKLEE Art Troupe and Yearly Concert
Concert organizer Qiuqiu also leads KLEEKLEE Art Troupe. Beyond the annual concert, the troupe visits nursing homes in Zhejiang and Shanghai quarterly. There, they sing because they’re needed—just as they sang for themselves today.
Volunteers and the Concert
Volunteers change yearly, but this year’s pros (reciters, musicians, singers) made the concert joyful and worthwhile. Everyone joined in, relaxed, and sang freely—likely adding to the magic.
Thanks to all volunteers for their quiet contributions: wisdom, time, and charm on and off stage. Your warmth means so much! See you next year at Nuancun!
（Group Picture）
