As China prepares for the opening of the 15th National Games on November 9, a 65-minute warm-up show promises to set the stage with a vibrant celebration of Lingnan culture, blending tradition and modernity in a captivating spectacle.
The pre-show, divided into four chapters—Tide Rising, Echoes of Sound, Heroic Spirit, and Building Dreams—aims to transform the audience from spectators into participants. Through lion dances, Cantonese opera, and rhythmic drum performances, 33 art troupes from across Guangdong will showcase the region's intangible cultural heritage.
"For the first time, the Games are jointly hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao," said Huang Peiling, deputy chief director of the opening ceremony. "The warm-up performance is our way of showcasing the shared cultural roots of the Pearl River Delta."
One highlight is the 24 Solar Terms Drum Dance, a fusion of traditional percussion and modern choreography. "We blend shouts with drumbeats and add contemporary dance moves," said Li Kangdi, an inheritor of Chaozhou drumming. "It's about making tradition feel fresh."
The performance also incorporates interactive sessions where hosts guide the audience through the ceremony's proceedings, ensuring they are not just watching but actively engaging with the event
With days to go, rehearsals are fine-tuning every detail. "We practice six hours daily, sometimes repeating a single line dozens of times," shared Weng Haoyu, a Hong Kong-born chorister. "It's a point of pride to represent our home."
Author | Feng Huiting
Photo | Nanfang Plus
Editor | Liu Lingzhi, James Campion, Shen He
