Zong Tianxian – Representative Inheritor of Yi Hulusheng Dance Project in Xichou County, Wenshan

Inheritance and Teaching

Zong Tianxian (宗天仙) was born in 1962 and belongs to the Hualuo (花倮) branch of the Yi ethnic group. She resides in Manlong Village (曼竜村), Jiejie Township (鸡街乡), Xichou County (西畴县). Manlong Village is a settlement of the Hualuo Yi people, where the Hulu Sheng Dance (葫芦笙舞) has been preserved as an ancient folk dance, distinguished by its unique “S”-shaped body movements.
Since childhood, Zong Tianxian has learned the Hulu Sheng Dance from her elders and has achieved a high level of mastery. She not only teaches the dance within her village but also actively participates in “Intangible Cultural Heritage into Schools” programs, bringing the Hulu Sheng Dance into classrooms. Through her efforts, she has trained a new generation of inheritors, laying a solid foundation for the continued transmission and development of the Hulu Sheng Dance.

Cultural Significance

The Hulu Sheng Dance (葫芦笙舞) of the Yi people is not only an essential component of Yi culture but also holds immense artistic value. It retains echoes of the ancient Dian people’s Hulu Sheng performances and reflects the life, customs, and culture of the Yi community.
Through her dedication to inheritance and promotion, Zong Tianxian has enabled more people to understand and appreciate this traditional art form.

Protection and Promotion

To protect and promote the Hulu Sheng Dance (葫芦笙舞) of the Yi people, Zong Tianxian actively participates in various cultural events and competitions, enhancing the visibility of this intangible cultural heritage. Her efforts have allowed the Hulu Sheng Dance to flourish among the younger generation and brought new vitality to this traditional art in modern society.
Thanks to Zong Tianxian’s unwavering dedication, the Hulu Sheng Dance has been better preserved and continues to shine as a cultural gem of the Yi people.

Zong Tianxian’s Participation in Cultural Activities to Promote the Hulu Sheng Dance

2024 China·Xichou Women’s Sun Festival

On March 8, 2024, Zong Tianxian led the Yi ethnic group team from Jiejie Township (鸡街乡) to perform the “Hulu Sheng Dance” (葫芦笙舞) at the 2024 China·Xichou Women’s Sun Festival. The performance not only showcased the unique charm of the Hulu Sheng Dance but also attracted the attention of numerous tourists and local residents.

“Intangible Cultural Heritage into Schools” Activities

Zong Tianxian actively participated in the “Intangible Cultural Heritage into Schools” activities, bringing the Hulu Sheng Dance into classrooms. Through live demonstrations and interactive teaching, she introduced students to the fundamental techniques and cultural significance of the Hulu Sheng Dance, sparking their interest in this traditional art form.

Ethnic Culture Inheritance and Protection Activities

Zong Tianxian has played an important role in various ethnic culture inheritance and protection activities in Xichou County (西畴县). She not only organizes Hulu Sheng Dance training and performances within her local community but also collaborates with other inheritors to promote the transmission and development of Yi culture.

Local Cultural Events

Zong Tianxian has also participated in numerous local cultural events in Xichou County (西畴县) and neighboring areas, such as the “Happy Valley” Ethnic Culture Festival (“欢乐谷”民族文化节). These activities provided opportunities for local residents to experience and appreciate the Hulu Sheng Dance, further enhancing its popularity.

Through these initiatives, Zong Tianxian has not only ensured the Hulu Sheng Dance is passed on to younger generations but has also contributed to revitalizing this traditional art form in modern society.

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