On the evening of October 22, 2023, the dance drama “Snowy Highway,” a part of the 2024 Shanghai-supported cultural immersion project, premiered in Xining, Qinghai.
This production holds special significance as it marks the first dance drama in the history of Shanghai’s support for Qinghai and is also the first self-created dance drama by a county-level artistic troupe in Qinghai Province.
At the heart of the drama is the inspiring story of Tao Zhenhua, a war veteran known as the “Hero of Snow Mountain,” who dedicated himself to building a road that connected his remote community to the outside world. Utilizing a distinctive and fluid vocabulary of dance, along with music deeply rooted in local ethnic culture, the performance weaves a touching narrative that blends emotion with the essence of the story.
Tao Zhenhua, who served in the Korean War, took on the role of Party Secretary in the Xueshan Commune of Maqin County. His determination to construct a road for the residents led him to rally the community in overcoming significant challenges. After extensive efforts, he and the locals successfully built a 57-kilometer road through cliffs, gorges, and swift rivers, finally connecting the previously isolated village to the rest of the region.
From its inception, the production of “Snowy Highway” involved collaboration between the Shanghai Aid to Qinghai Cadres Liaison Group (Maqin Team) and the Maqin County Bureau of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Broadcasting. Together, they sought to create an artistic work centered on national unity, emphasizing Tao Zhenhua’s achievements through a performance rich in local ethnic characteristics. The drama not only celebrates the accomplishments of the Party but also highlights its ethnic policies, reinforcing national unity and progress.
Through this artistic expression, “Snowy Highway” reflects the deep friendship and shared efforts between Shanghai and Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, as well as the cultural exchanges and integration between the two regions.
Additionally, the Qinghai Provincial Department of Education is bringing this performance to university campuses. On October 23 and 24, “Elegant Art Enters Campus” activities will be held at Qinghai Minzu University and Qinghai University of Technology, aimed at enhancing the cultural literacy of students and faculty, promoting national spirit, and fostering the development of campus culture. This initiative promises a visual and spiritual cultural feast for the university community.
