Qianwu Fluttercolor Show

Qianwu Fluttercolor Show

Nominating Unit: City of Zhuhai

Qianwu Fluttercolor Show is popular in the three villages of Qiandong, Qianxi and Qianbei, Qianwu Town, Zhuhai, which enjoys a history of more than 300 years. During the reign of Emperor Tianqi in the Ming Dynasty (1625 A.D.), a Qianwu native called Liang Guodong was oppointed the county magistrate of Pengze, Jiangxi. After retiring, he imitated the “Jiangxi Piaose” and made the key parts (three “Segun”) before returning home. Back in Qianwu, Liang instructed people in Qianwu to install three boards of well-designed Piaose for performing in festivals.(https://www.daowen.com)

With the long historical development, Qianwu Fluttercolor Show has developed from the original three boards to eight boards, which are the “Magpies standing on plum blossoms”, “Eight Immortals crossing the Sea”, “Legend of the White Snake”, “Buddha sitting on a lotus”, “The Invincible Constable”, “Nezha Conquering the Dragon King”, “Sword Practice at Cock-Crow”, “Mu Guiying Zhao Qin”. Qianwu Fluttercolor Show attaches great importance to the mysterious skills and artistic designs of its making. It is somehow conventional yet progressive, even fantastic. From the pattern carving on “Segui (the moving stage)” to the delicate making of Sebang (prop.) and the embroidering on characters’ costumes, all the techniques and crafts are so exquisite. One of the most eye-catching things about Qianwu Fluttercolor Show is the scene of children (aged from 7 to 10) standing on Sebang, dressed as characters in folk or historical stories. The fl ying-like and vivid styles of them are of great value for appreciation. With the gorgeous costumes and the joyful music played by the drums and gongs band, the Piaose procession creates a strong festive atmosphere, which is greatly welcomed.

As a traditional folk art, Qianwu Fluttercolor Show has played an important role in economic and cultural exchanges. However, currently all the masters of the techniques of Piaose performance and making are more than 40 years old. The younger generation shows little interest in it, which leads to the plight of lack of successors. Therefore, it is urgent to adopt effective supportive and protective measures for Qianwu Fluttercolor Show.