With the Year of the Pig in the Chinese lunar calendar fast approaching, a variety show featuring three northern and increasingly interconnected jurisdictions in China was put on in the affluent Californian city of Beverly Hills on Friday.

About 500 American audience gathered in a theater in Beverly Hills on Friday for the show titled "Charming Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei" featuring Chinese artists performing folk music, Tai Chi, Peking opera, acrobatic and martial arts.

A photo exhibition of the capital Beijing, the municipality of Tianjin and the province of Hebei showcased the festival culture and latest developments in the region. Plans are underway to strengthen connectivity between Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei.

The show was more than a visual treat for visitors: it also offered information about the cultural and economic aspects of the three jurisdictions, said Chinese Consul General in Los Angeles Zhang Ping.

He expressed hope that such event would deepen mutual understanding between the two peoples and serve as a platform for further trade and cultural exchanges.

Vice Mayor of Beverly Hills John Mirisch said his city enjoys a great relationship with China. "We welcome the Chinese, and think sharing some of their interesting cultural experiences with American audiences right here in Beverly Hills makes us understand and appreciate each other more."

The event is the eighth annual Chinese New Year celebration hosted in the city.