Dance drama shares iconic Lingnan culture

Updated: 2025-08-09 13:06 ( China Daily )

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*Odes to Heroes* captivates audiences with its touching storyline and dynamic movements. The traditional *yingge* dance, which originated during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), takes on a new look to attract younger generations while remaining deeply rooted in the rich heritage of the Lingnan region in southern China. [Photo by ZOU HONG/CHINA DAILY]

"At its core, the dance drama is a tale of generational memory, loss and the longing for reunification," director Qian says.

"From the moment the stage lights flicker on, the audience is transported into the world of Lingnan region, where the artistry of the yingge dance is elevated to new heights."

The yingge dance, or "dance to the hero's song", is a celebration of the triumph of good over evil, mostly popular in southern China. The dance form dates back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and merges traditional opera, dance and martial arts.

Performers wear opera-style facial makeup in different colors and patterns that reveal the personalities of the characters they are portraying. With a pair of short mallets in hand, they jump, swing, and hit the mallets together while walking and dancing, all to the resounding beat of drums, gongs and shouts.