An enchanting Taixing flower-drum performance takes place. [Photo/WeChat account: txzhtx]
As a traditional local folk dance in Taixing city – administered by Taizhou city in East China's Jiangsu province – the Taixing flower-drum dance was listed as a provincial intangible cultural heritage protection item in 2009.
With a recorded history spanning 300 to 400 years, Taixing flower drum performers often use red lanterns, bamboo clappers, gongs and drums as props.
There are different performance versions involving two, four, six, eight, and 12 people, but the six-person flower drum dance is regarded as the best.
A performer can dance solo or sing while dancing, integrating the unique features of the local culture.
It is sung in the Taixing dialect and the lyrics are not fixed. To avoid repetition, some lyrics are often woven into the song, or humorous and witty ballads are sung.
The steps and movements of the Taixing flower drum dance are large, flexible and humorous – showcasing the kind, optimistic and cheerful personalities of the Taixing people.