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The ancient Chinese tile game of mah jongg is growing in popularity in the New Bedford area.

The game uses 152 tiles with suits called cracks, dots, and bams, along with flowers and jokers.

The first player to complete a valid hand and declare "Mah Jongg!" wins the game.

NEW BEDFORD — Joan Blanchett will tell you she’s been playing mah jongg for about 100 years, when in reality, it’s been close to 40 years. This milestone has given her the authority on the ancient Chinese tile game, and, in New Bedford’s growing mah jongg scene, something of a celebrity.

Blanchett said she plays three to four times a week in New Bedford, Fairhaven and Dartmouth. At least once a week she teaches mah jongg to new players at the New Bedford Buttonwood Senior Center.

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