Mountains to metropolis: children's ethnic culture show lights up Shanghai

On the evening of August 5, the Shanghai Children's Art Theater hosted the grand finale of the 2025 Pride From the Mountains ethnic culture showcase.

Organized by the Shanghai E-Youth Volunteering Center with support from the Shanghai Soong Ching Ling Foundation, the event celebrated the cultural heritage of China's ethnic communities.

Sixteen original performances were presented by students from the Dong, Oroqen, Jiarong Tibetan, Mongolian, Naxi, and Tibetan groups, each highlighting their unique traditions.

The Tibetan segment featured a performance of rnam thar Tibetan opera, titled Songtsen Gampo. This art form, which originated in Gannan, northwestern Gansu Province, differs in style from Tibetan opera performed in Tibet.

The young performers dramatized the story of Songtsen Gampo, the 7th-century Tibetan king, welcoming Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty (618-907) – an event that historically strengthened Tang-Tibetan relations.

The Naxi, a minority group native to southwestern Yunnan Province, showcased their hospitality through The Toast Song. Students and teachers wore traditional attire, with women's clothing featuring long gowns, pleated aprons, and ornate headpieces.

A children's psychological drama, Stars on the Steppe, presented by Mongolian students, depicted a Mongolian boy overcoming his insecurities through friendship with a little horse.

"Seeing these children shine on stage moved me deeply. Their confidence radiates through every gesture," remarked one attending parent.

The event concluded a 10-day summer camp where 47 students explored Shanghai's museums and galleries, participated in artistic workshops, and visited local entrepreneurs.

Since its launch in 2012, the Pride from the Mountains initiative has collaborated with 47 schools across 20 ethnic groups, preserving 98 art forms – including 21 designated as national intangible cultural heritage. The program aims to strengthen cultural identity among Chinese youth while fostering inter-ethnic exchanges.