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Luzhi Lianxiang


Lianxiang, also known as Lianhua Luo or Bawang Bian, is a traditional dance beloved by many ethnic groups. The origins of Luzhi Lianxiang can be traced back to the Song Dynasty. As times changed and the Taiping Rebellion facilitated cultural exchanges between northern and southern regions, by the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty (1851–1861), its present basic form had largely taken shape. Lianxiang is crafted from slender bamboo poles just over one meter in length; each end is carved with two hollow sections and fitted with copper coins, while several strands of colorful velvet thread are tied near the joints to enhance its visual appeal. Some performers even paint the bamboo poles in vibrant hues.

Lianxiang, also known as Lianhua Luo or Bawang Bian, is a traditional dance beloved by many ethnic groups. The origins of Luzhi Lianxiang can be traced back to the Song Dynasty. As times changed and the Taiping Rebellion facilitated cultural exchanges between northern and southern regions, by the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty (1851–1861), its present basic form had largely taken shape. Lianxiang is crafted from slender bamboo poles just over one meter in length; each end is carved with two hollow sections and fitted with copper coins, while several strands of colorful velvet thread are tied near the joints to enhance its visual appeal. Some performers even paint the bamboo poles in vibrant hues.

Lianxiang dance is divided into two styles: the literary and the martial. In the literary style, performers emphasize both song and dance, with a lively, brisk tempo; in the martial style, the performance is vigorous and free-flowing, with smooth rhythms and bold, robust movements. The Lüzhong Lianxiang dance belongs to the literary tradition.

Lianxiang can be performed by a young man and woman, or by a group of performers. During the performance, each participant holds a lianxiang stick and, in time with the rhythm, both strikes it and dances—sometimes tapping their own limbs, shoulders, waist, back, and hips; sometimes striking the ground; and at other times engaging in playful exchanges with others. The lianxiang produces rhythmic sounds that serve as musical accompaniment. As they perform, the dancers sing and dance in a variety of lively, coordinated, and vigorous styles, creating an exuberant and festive atmosphere that is highly entertaining. In June 2011, Luzhi Lianxiang was included in Suzhou’s municipal list of representative intangible cultural heritage items and placed on the protection register. By the end of 2014, Luzhi Lianxiang had been nominated for inclusion in the fourth batch of provincial-level representative intangible cultural heritage items.