The lively Ganzhou Shehuo rehearsal. [Photo/Gansu Daily]

Yunhai Folk Culture and Art Troupe rehearsed its Dragon Soaring in a Prosperous Age Ganzhou Shehuo performance on Jan 28 at the Silk Road Culture and Art Center Square in Zhangye, Gansu province, in preparation for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations.

Ganzhou Shehuo is recognized as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage of Gansu, having been included in the provincial intangible cultural heritage (ICH) protection list in 2011. It encompasses a diverse range of performance forms, including percussion, yangko dance, land boat performances, stilt walking, and martial arts, and serves as a significant traditional folk custom for residents celebrating Chinese New Year.

More than 50 ICH Shehuo performance troupes across the city have begun rehearsals for the upcoming Spring Festival. The troupes will take turns performing classic pieces such as Fierce Lion Dance, Peace Drum, and Eight Horses Greeting Spring. The performers, full of energy and enthusiasm, infuse their acts with heartfelt wishes for the new year, creating a joyful and harmonious festive atmosphere.