Pyongyang, August 1 (KCNA) -- The performance of the grand gymnastic and artistic extravaganza "Arirang", a winner of Kim Il Sung Prize, began with due ceremony at the May Day Stadium in Pyongyang on Monday evening on the 63rd anniversary of the birthday of the DPRK.

"Arirang" gave its premiere in 2002.

The creating staff produced new scenes depicting the mental power of the servicepersons and people of the DPRK who have brought about eye-opening events under the leadership of the great party and its proud appearance.

Among the audience were Kim Ki Nam and Choe Ryong Hae, secretaries of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, DPRK Vice-Premier Kang Nung Su, officials of working people's organizations, ministries and national institutions, servicepersons of the People's Army and working people in Pyongyang.

Present there on invitation were overseas compatriots and foreign guests.

An Tong Chun, minister of Culture, said in his speech that "Arirang" would instill fresh energy and courage into the servicepersons and people and demonstrate the appearance of single-mindedly united socialist Korea and the wisdom and talents of Koreans.

As the melody of the song "His Ideal" resounded forth, such slogans as "Highest Tribute to the Great Leader, Father of Nation" and "Highest Glory to the Great Leader Comrade Kim Jong Il" appeared on the background one after another. When the performance started, the entire stadium turned into a huge sea of cheering performers and dancers.

The performers made a grand epic representation of the exploits President Kim Il Sung and leader Kim Jong Il performed for the era, the revolution, the country and its people and all the servicepersons and people working miracles and feats in the efforts to improve the standard of people's living and build a thriving country.

The performance was highly acclaimed by the audience for presenting fantastic scenes of fascinating art in three-dimensional space, a perfect combination of modern sound and lighting effect, electronic displays, beautiful rhythms and dynamic gymnastics, ever-changing background, etc.