Anshun Dixi Opera shines during National Day holiday

During the National Day holiday, Anshun Dixi Opera is showcased for visitors in various scenic areas. [Photo/ddcpc website]

Anshun Dixi Opera, a tradition spanning over 600 years in Southwest China's Guizhou province, stepped out of the villages and into the spotlight during the National Day holiday from Oct 1 to 7, delivering an authentic cultural feast to visitors through immersive folk performances.

The opera was approved by the State Council in 2006 for inclusion in the first batch of national-level intangible cultural heritages.

Actors wear brightly colored, exquisitely carved wooden masks and ancient military costumes, wielding weapons such as swords, spears, and halberds. Accompanied by the rhythmic beat of gongs and drums, a lead singer carries the melody while the others chime in with the chorus.

During the holiday shows, organizers kept the traditional singing styles, staging rules, and core storylines intact while shortening and pacing the performances for modern audiences. Paired with detailed live commentary, this made the art form easy for everyday visitors to follow and appreciate.

Alongside regular performances of classic plays, a new immersive showcase hit the commercial streets of the Huangguoshu Tourism Zone. By tapping into the area's heavy foot traffic, the event brought together a rich mix of local intangible cultural heritage, featuring Tunpu Dixi Opera, the Miao epic King Yalu, Tunpu flower lanterns, and the rhythms of Bouyei bronze drums.

By blending authentic folk traditions with interactive experiences, the city has done more than boost its tourism appeal; it has breathed new life into its cultural heritage, driving the steady growth of its tourism industry.