Abstract
The Yellow Mud Drum Dance is deeply rooted in the ritual customs of the Yao people, functioning both as a repository of cultural memory and a dynamic expression of collective identity. This study explores the performance characteristics of the Yellow Mud Drum Dance, a traditional Yao ritual, within the broader context of cultural preservation and adaptation. Based on fieldwork conducted in Jinxiu, Guangxi, China, this study employed qualitative research methods, including participant observation, interviews with local practitioners, and performance analysis, to examine the choreography, music, and spatial arrangements of the dance. The results indicate that these elements play a critical role in enhancing community cohesion and fostering emotional resonance among participants. As the Yellow Mud Drum Dance transitions from ritual spaces to modern performance venues, its evolution preserves core symbolic elements while demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of traditional cultural expression in the face of modernization and globalization. This study underscores the importance of preserving such performative cultures, while also allowing room for innovation to ensure they continue to play a meaningful role in contemporary society.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have