BEIJING, Aug. 14 -- The "Breath of Qiang" is a stage epic that
presents a colorful tapestry of folk culture unique to the Qiang minority group.
The project recently wrapped up its performances in Beijing, before launching a
national tour.
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The "Breath of Qiang" is a stage epic
that presents a colorful tapestry of folk culture unique to the Qiang
minority group. The project recently wrapped up its performances in
Beijing, before launching a national tour. (Source: CCTV.com)
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In an attempt to convey the most authentic portrayal of Qiang culture,
"Breath of Qiang" is performed by ordinary Qiang people instead of
professionals. Each of the eighty actors are residents of Wenchuan, the
worst-hit county in last year's Sichuan Earthquake.
What they present are six precious aspects of the Qiang cultural legacy,
such as embroidery, traditional festival celebrations, ensembles singing folk
songs, flute playing, and goat skin drumming. Each of the presentations has
itself been recognized as an item of national intangible heritage.
One of the oldest ethnic groups in China, the Qiang minority has inhabited
western China's Sichuan Province for thousands of years. Many of the Qiang
villages were ruined in the quake, and the devastation to their traditional
culture was acutely felt.
But for many, the quake has actually reignited interest in Qiang culture.
Director Cao Ping said, "For a minority with no written language, the art
and culture of the Qiang group has been orally passed down. This show is
intended to introduce audiences to how Qiang culture has amazingly remained
intact over thousands of years. "
The director believes that the more you know about it, the more you love
it. Backstage many audience members were so interested that they were keen to
learn some of the skills performed by the Qiang actors.
With this warm reception, "Breath of Qiang" may become a model for others
who are struggling to preserve and resurrect traditional ethnic cultures.
(Source: CCTV.com)
