Yi Xuechang – Inheritor of Yi “Mopi Huagu Dance” in Xinping County, Yuxi

Yi Xuechang (易学昌) is one of the inheritors of the Yi ethnic group’s traditional dance known as “Mopi Huagu Dance” (磨皮花鼓舞) from Mopi Village (磨皮村), Pingdian Township (平甸乡), Xinping County (新平县), Yuxi City (玉溪市). From a young age, he developed a deep love for this distinctive Yi dance and studied it under the guidance of his father Yi Shirong (易世荣) and other skilled performers. Yi Xuechang is known for his superb technique and ability to fully transmit the fundamental movements of the dance. He performs regularly during traditional festivals such as Spring Festival, Torch Festival, Dragon Worship Festival, and “Eating Flower Wine” (吃花酒).

Characteristics of the Mopi Huagu Dance (磨皮花鼓舞)

The Mopi Huagu Dance is a traditional Yi dance full of distinctive ethnic features. Its movements originate from legends of the Yi ancestors, such as Apu Dumu (阿谱笃慕) beating wooden barrels and stepping on sharp grass, as well as representations of ancient battle scenes. This dance is more than just entertainment; it is also a form of ritual with deep cultural and historical significance.

The performance is divided into male and female teams: the male team represents warriors wielding weapons, and the female team performs with flower drums. At least 15 performers are needed to complete the performance, which includes 27 routines. Performers carry traditional weapons such as broadswords, double swords, and hooked sickles, accompanied by waist drums. By changing formations and executing complex movements, the dance reenacts scenes of ancient warfare. Its style is bold and unrestrained, with heroic poses and an energetic atmosphere, fully reflecting the bravery, frankness, and resilient spirit of the Yi people.

Transmission and Preservation

Yi Xuechang is deeply aware of the cultural value of the Mopi Huagu Dance. He actively participates in various cultural events to promote and teach this traditional art, allowing more people to understand and appreciate it. In recent years, the Mopi Huagu Dance has been included in the provincial-level Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Project list. This recognition has provided Yi Xuechang and other inheritors with greater support and more opportunities to ensure its continued transmission.

Through participating in provincial, municipal, and county-level performances—and winning multiple awards—Yi Xuechang and fellow inheritors have not only enriched villagers’ cultural lives but also exerted a profound influence on neighboring villages and regions. They have also actively entered local schools to teach children the Mopi Huagu Dance, helping to cultivate a new generation of inheritors.

Yi Xuechang’s contributions have ensured that this ancient Yi folk dance continues to thrive, while also making a significant impact on the protection and development of Yi culture.

Concrete Actions Taken by Yi Xuechang to Protect Yi Culture

Inheritance and Teaching

Cultivating new generations of inheritors: Yi Xuechang actively engages in the transmission of the dance by organizing and instructing villagers to rehearse the Mopi Huagu Dance. He not only teaches within his village but also visits local schools to educate children, ensuring the continuity of this traditional art.

Complete transmission of fundamental movements: As an inheritor, Yi Xuechang is capable of fully teaching the core movements of the dance, preserving its precision and authenticity.

Participation in Cultural Activities

Organizing and performing in events: Yi Xuechang leads the Mopi Huagu Dance troupe in various performances at the provincial, municipal, and county levels, frequently winning awards. These performances enrich local cultural life and elevate the dance’s public visibility.

Showcasing cultural achievements: The Mopi Huagu Dance has won the gold prize in provincial folk music and dance exhibitions, demonstrating the success of Xinping County’s efforts to preserve intangible cultural heritage.

Cultural Preservation and Promotion

Establishing a cultural heritage center: With support from local government and the Department of Ethnic and Religious Affairs, Yi Xuechang and fellow inheritors helped establish a Cultural Heritage Training Hall (传习馆) in Mopi Village (磨皮村). The center exhibits Yi ancient texts, historical documents, and traditional tools, laying a solid foundation for the preservation of traditional culture.

Building a cultural brand: Through participation in and organization of various cultural activities, Yi Xuechang has enhanced the cultural brand of the Mopi Huagu Dance, making it a unique symbol of Xinping County (新平县).

Cultural Innovation and Integration

Innovating performance formats: While preserving traditional elements, Yi Xuechang has introduced new performance styles to make the Mopi Huagu Dance more appealing to contemporary audiences.

Incorporating modern elements: By integrating traditional dance with modern music, stage design, and other elements, Yi Xuechang retains the cultural essence of the dance while enhancing its modern appeal.

Through these efforts, Yi Xuechang has not only achieved artistic excellence but has also made significant contributions to the inheritance and promotion of Yi culture.

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