The Spring Festival special program 2026 Intangible Cultural Heritage Gala kicked off on February 19th and 20th, bringing together intangible cultural heritage treasures from across the country. As a crucial cradle of Chinese civilization, Henan's selected items—Yu Opera, Jiaozuo Qinyang Suona Horn, and Kaifeng Pan Drum, three major national-level heritage projects—shone brightly in the fusion program "Ballad of Mulan," presenting a remarkable Henan intangible cultural heritage performance that allowed hundreds of millions of viewers to feel the profound depth and vibrant vitality of Central Plains culture through their screens.

"Ballad of Mulan," using the classic Yuefu poem as its narrative core, ingeniously blended traditional intangible cultural heritage with modern stage technology. Yu Opera artist Fan Jing delivered a nuanced performance with her mellow and melodious singing, vividly portraying Mulan's devotion to her family and country alongside her tender side as a daughter. Qinyang Suona inheritors Ren Tengfei and Ren Yafei produced powerful and resounding notes, showcasing both the boldness characteristic of northern instruments and subtle rhythmic variations.

The Kaifeng Pan Drum Art Troupe, in collaboration with performers from the Henan Vocational College of Art, used resounding drumbeats and precise, synchronized formations to display the magnificent spirit of the people of the Central Plains. The interweaving of these three heritage art forms breathed new life into the ancient story of Mulan for a new era.

What added to the delight was how this Henan intangible cultural heritage performance transcended geographical and cultural boundaries. Guest performer Shang Wenjie integrated her distinctive vocals with modern arrangements, perfectly complementing the traditional techniques. The participation of performers from multiple countries allowed this tale of female heroism to resonate across oceans. The dialogue between tradition and pop, China and the world, on a single stage, not only made intangible cultural heritage more accessible and endearing but also showcased the inclusiveness and confidence of Chinese culture to the world.

From local inheritance to global appreciation, the Henan intangible cultural heritage performance is entering the public eye with an increasingly open attitude. This appearance on CCTV was not just a brilliant showcase but also a new starting point for the innovative dissemination of Central Plains culture. 

Web editors: Shen Jianqi, Li Siyao