Bamboo Horse Dance enlivens rural areas in Shandong's Juye

In Juye county, Shandong province, the Bamboo Horse Dance, a traditional art form, is making a comeback, captivating both villagers and spectators.

In Juye's Shatuji village, the rhythmic beats of drums filled the air as a unique cultural event unfolded. Nearly forgotten, the Bamboo Horse Dance made a stunning appearance. The dance's lively rhythm, dynamic formations, and artistic allure sparked excitement among villagers, drawing cheers from the audience and becoming the highlight of the event.

The Bamboo Horse Dance is a popular folk art form cherished by the people of Juye county, with a long and treasured history. Tracing back to the late Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), villagers would spontaneously come together during festivals or celebrations, don traditional attire, hold bamboo horses, and sing and dance to celebrate harvests and pray for good fortune.

By simulating the movements of horses galloping, jumping, and turning, along with various battlefield formations, the dance exudes a bold and energetic atmosphere, showcasing distinctive local artistic characteristics.

In recent years, the local government has emphasized preserving and inheriting excellent traditional culture, promoting the creative transformation and development of cultural elements.

By cleverly integrating Bamboo Horse Dance elements into classic traditional dramas and incorporating the traditional art form with robust singing and agile movements complementing the galloping bamboo horses, traditional operas have gained greater visual impact, allowing excellent traditional culture to shine brightly in modern society. (Edited by Xie Zhenzhen)

In Juye county, Shandong province, the traditional art form of Bamboo Horse Dance experiences a revival, captivating villagers and spectators alike. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]