The long-drum dance of the Yao nationality is one of China's national intangible cultural heritages, named for the use of large long drums, which serve as both musical instruments and dance props. At the closing ceremony of the 15th National Games of China, the Liannan Ethnic Song and Dance Troupe from Liannan Yao Autonomous County in Qingyuan showcased the unique cultural charm of the Yao people through their exquisite performance of this traditional dance.
During the performance, a giant long drum on stage captivated the audience's attention. Specifically crafted for this occasion, the oversized drum was scaled up tenfold from the traditional Yao long drum—measuring 10 meters in length, with a diameter exceeding 1 meter, and weighing approximately 550 kilograms.
The dance was accompanied by musical excerpts from an original Yao dance drama rooted in Liannan. This outstanding work vividly reflects the efforts of the Yao people in Guangdong to march toward prosperity and advance rural revitalization.
Author | He Fengyu
Photo | Qingyuan Fabu
Editor | Wei Shen, James Campion, Shen He
