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]

In recent years, the old dance form has become a viral hit and attracted lots of tourists to cities of southern China to experience the unique culture.

In the dance drama, traditional moves, like the graceful hand gestures and sharp footwork, seamlessly intertwine with the beats produced by the mallets, captivating the audience with the blending of cultural history, personal memory, and the evolving nature of tradition.

A principal dancer of Guangzhou Song and Dance Theatre, Iiiwan Umar, 30, plays the role of the son in the dance drama.

"I've always felt that dance should not just be a display of technique, but a form of storytelling. I was inspired by the qiaopi letters that have been passed down through generations. These letters are more than just words on paper — they are a bridge between worlds," he said in Beijing on July 31.