Beijing's Shougang Park, a former industrial complex turned cultural hub, is pulsating with new energy as it hosts a vibrant ethnic music and culture festival. The event, organized by the Beijing Association for Ethnic Unity and Progress and the Beijing Tsinghua Heritage Institute for Digitization, showcases China's rich cultural tapestry through dynamic performances and interactive exhibits.
Once dominated by blast furnaces, the park now echoes with traditional instruments like the dutar and horsehead fiddle, as artists from multiple ethnic groups share their heritage. Visitors can experience everything from Mongolian throat singing to Yi ethnic dance circles, creating a living mosaic of China's diverse traditions.
The festival's innovative approach combines cultural preservation with modern technology. Augmented reality installations allow attendees to explore digitized artifacts, while workshops demonstrate traditional craft techniques. This blend of old and new reflects Beijing's evolving urban identity, where industrial relics coexist with cutting-edge cultural initiatives.
As night falls, the park transforms into an open-air theater, with light projections mapping ethnic patterns onto former factory structures. The event not only entertains but fosters cross-cultural understanding, attracting both local families and international visitors.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com