As the 2026 Lunar New Year approaches, a groundbreaking fusion of ancient Chinese culture and digital innovation is captivating global audiences. CGTN's collaboration with the popular game Honor of Kings brings to life the historic Hu Xuan Dance – a spinning art form that flourished along the Silk Road over 1,400 years ago – through a visually stunning special video set to premiere during this year's Spring Festival Gala Super Night.
The project draws inspiration from a pivotal moment in Chinese cultural history. On February 15, 610, Emperor Yang Guang of the Sui Dynasty transformed the Lantern Festival celebrations into an unprecedented public carnival in Luoyang. This 7th-century event, described in historical records as "a night when all restrictions lifted," marked one of China's earliest recorded mass cultural celebrations, foreshadowing the Tang Dynasty's golden age of artistic exchange.
Dunhuang fresco experts consulted for the project emphasize how the Hu Xuan Dance's swirling motions embody the Silk Road's spirit of cultural integration. "The dance's circular movements mirror the cyclical nature of cultural exchange," explains researcher Li Wei. "From Persian merchants to Central Asian musicians, many influences coalesced in this art form."
The digital recreation uses motion capture technology to preserve the dance's authentic gestures while adding contemporary visual effects. This innovative approach aims to engage younger audiences while maintaining historical accuracy – a balance crucial for the production team. "We're not just reviving history," says creative director Zhang Ming, "but showing how ancient art forms can speak to modern sensibilities."
As families worldwide prepare for Lunar New Year celebrations on February 17, this cultural initiative highlights China's ongoing efforts to reinterpret traditional arts through digital platforms. The Hu Xuan Dance project serves as both a festive spectacle and a reminder of Asia's enduring role in shaping global cultural narratives.
