The village that learned to sing for its supper

By performing for visitors, Laodabao's musical residents have managed to double their annual incomes in less than a decade

In days gone by, the villagers of Laodabao in mountainous Lancang county, Yunnan province, would play the guitar and sing to each other as a way to relax. Nowadays, their shared hobby has put them on the path to prosperity.

Laodabao is home to more than 400 members of the Lahu ethnic group. A decade ago, their average annual salary was just 1,700 yuan ($247).