Source: CCTV.com

12-12-2008 09:41

2008 is the 50th anniversary of the founding of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. There was a major celebration Thursday morning in the capital city, Nanning. Guangxi is looking back over half-a-century and looking to the future as one of the most ethnically diverse regions of China.

2008 is the 50th anniversary of the founding of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. There was a major celebration Thursday  morning in the capital city, Nanning.

A spectacle comprised of singing and dancing marked the high point of the celebration. About 4,500 performers expressed the diverse folk culture of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It was a performance that unfolded in five parts.

Singing is the most important means of artistic expression among the Zhuang people who comprise China's largest ethnic minority.

2008 is the 50th anniversary of the founding of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. There was a major celebration Thursday  morning in the capital city, Nanning.

Sister Liu is a household name in China. Her story is a favourite among local people. The story has been adapted many times for stage and screen. In 2004, renowned director Zhang Yimou presented his interpretation of Sister Liu's story and her beautiful home town Guangxi. The opera takes the glorious setting along the Lijiang River for its backdrop.

The third day of the third month is the most important traditional festival for Zhuang people. It's the day when the people remember Sister Liu. And of course, singing is the most important part of the program. In 1984, the date was set as an official song festival by the government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.