BEIJING, Aug. 14 -- The "Breath of Qiang" is a stage epic that presents a colorful tapestry of folk culture unique to the Qiang minority group. The project recently wrapped up its performances in Beijing, before launching a national tour.

The "Breath of Qiang" is a stage epic that presents a colorful tapestry of folk culture unique to the Qiang minority group. The project recently wrapped up its performances in Beijing, before launching a national tour. (Source: CCTV.com) Photo Gallery>>>

    In an attempt to convey the most authentic portrayal of Qiang culture, "Breath of Qiang" is performed by ordinary Qiang people instead of professionals. Each of the eighty actors are residents of Wenchuan, the worst-hit county in last year's Sichuan Earthquake.

    What they present are six precious aspects of the Qiang cultural legacy, such as embroidery, traditional festival celebrations, ensembles singing folk songs, flute playing, and goat skin drumming. Each of the presentations has itself been recognized as an item of national intangible heritage.

    One of the oldest ethnic groups in China, the Qiang minority has inhabited western China's Sichuan Province for thousands of years. Many of the Qiang villages were ruined in the quake, and the devastation to their traditional culture was acutely felt.

    But for many, the quake has actually reignited interest in Qiang culture.

    Director Cao Ping said, "For a minority with no written language, the art and culture of the Qiang group has been orally passed down. This show is intended to introduce audiences to how Qiang culture has amazingly remained intact over thousands of years. "

    The director believes that the more you know about it, the more you love it. Backstage many audience members were so interested that they were keen to learn some of the skills performed by the Qiang actors.

    With this warm reception, "Breath of Qiang" may become a model for others who are struggling to preserve and resurrect traditional ethnic cultures.