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Galloping into Madrid: Yingge dance sparks a cultural fever in Spain

Recently, fresh off a vibrant tour in Russia, the Puning Fumei Youth Yingge Team has officially stormed into Madrid, bringing the thunderous rhythm of Guangdong's heritage to the second stop of their European journey.

Their arrival coincided with the grand opening of Madrid's "Happy Chinese New Year" celebrations on February 20, where Chinese Ambassador to Spain Yao Jing joined a captivated crowd to witness a performance that was majestic and electrifying.

The troupe didn't just stick to the formal stage; they took their vibrant dance directly to the people, performing at the Plaza de la Junta de Usera and the sprawling Pradolongo Park.

These weren't mere showcases—they were masterclasses in cross-cultural chemistry. In a heartwarming display of East meeting West, local Spanish youths eagerly picked up traditional Yingge drumsticks to mimic the troupe's powerful strikes and intricate footwork.

As the rhythmic roar of Chinese drums filled the air, local Spanish dance groups joined the fray, blending their own passionate movements with the disciplined energy of the Yingge dancers. The fusion was so seamless that it drew thunderous applause from locals and overseas Chinese alike; rhythm truly knows no borders.

Beyond the performance, this tour also marked a sophisticated leap in how Chinese culture goes global. As a historic first, Spain officially released a Yingge-themed commemorative stamp during the event.

This tiny piece of art has quickly become a coveted bridge for cultural exchange, sparking a frenzy among local philatelists and residents. The stamp represents a new era of cultural exchange—moving away from traditional displays toward a win-win model where cultural storytelling and creativity work in harmony.

The Yingge team also visited the China Cultural Center in Madrid and signed a strategic agreement. This partnership establishes a permanent platform for the Lingnan spirit to flourish in Spain, ensuring that the dialogue between these two vibrant cultures continues long after the final drumbeat.

As the spirit of the Year of the Horse shines through the streets of Madrid, it's clear that this ancient Lingnan dance has found a brand-new and very enthusiastic home in the heart of Europe.

Reporter | Guo Chuhua

Cameraman | Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province

Video | Guo Hongda

Li Fangwang also contributed to this report.

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