The Hai'an Flower Drum performance originates in rural and coastal communities along the southern Yellow Sea. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Hai'an in Nantong, Jiangsu province, launched its Flower Drum Art Troupe on Oct 12, marking a new phase of high-quality and innovative development for this traditional local art form. The troupe aims to preserve local heritage, nurture artistic creations, and showcase Hai'an's cultural image.

According to Ge Zhihua, head of the Hai'an Flower Drum Art Troupe, the new troupe will deepen research into the history and evolution of Flower Drum, establish a professional creative team to produce new works and participate in competitions, and form a permanent performance ensemble.

The Hai'an Flower Drum performance has a rich history dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Its dance movements originate from the labor of local farmers and fishermen, vividly portraying the everyday life of rural and coastal communities along the southern Yellow Sea.

Over the years, Hai'an Flower Drum has appeared on national stages, performed at major events such as the 50th-anniversary celebration of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the opening ceremonies leading up to the Beijing Olympics. In 2007, it was listed as a provincial intangible cultural heritage item.

Flower Drum performances are widespread across Hai'an, with teams of all age groups. More than 80 percent of primary and secondary schools in Hai'an have formed their own Flower Drum teams.