The annual Spring Festival Gala witnessed an extraordinary blend of tradition and technology this Tuesday night, as 16 humanoid robots from China's leading robotics firm, Unitree, shared the stage with 16 human dancers. Together, they performed the Yangko dance—a lively folk art form originating from northeast China—captivating audiences with a harmonious fusion of cultural heritage and cutting-edge innovation.
The robots showcased remarkable synchronization with their human counterparts, moving with precision and grace. A highlight of the performance was when the robots skillfully manipulated handkerchiefs, an iconic element of the Yangko dance. With their advanced mechanical arms, they expertly twirled and tossed the handkerchiefs into the air, creating a mesmerizing visual display that symbolized the seamless integration of the old and the new.
\"They will perform fully automated position changes on stage, and their dance movements are all driven by AI,\" explained Wang Qixin, head of marketing at Unitree, in an interview with CGTN before the gala. This statement underscores the sophistication of the robots' programming and the strides made in artificial intelligence, enabling them to participate in such a culturally significant event.
The performance not only highlighted China's commitment to advancing technological frontiers but also emphasized the importance of preserving and celebrating traditional arts. By bringing humanoid robots into the realm of folk dance, the event presented a vision of the future where technology enhances cultural expression rather than replacing it.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
