Weishu Imu is a representative dance art of the Kham Tibetan region on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau and one of the most widely transmitted folk song-and-dance forms in the Yushu area. It was inscribed on China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritag...
Weishu Imu is a representative dance art of the Kham Tibetan region on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau and one of the most widely transmitted folk song-and-dance forms in the Yushu area. It was inscribed on China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2008. Drawing upon the theoretical frameworks of ethnic dance studies, intangible cultural heritage protection, and aesthetics, this paper synthesizes field investigation, literature analysis, and intertextuality to examine the historical origins and developmental trajectory of Weishu Imu.
From a historical and cultural perspective, Weishu Imu is deeply embedded in the production and daily life practices of the Yushu Tibetans. While absorbing cultural elements from various periods and regions, it preserves traces of ancient nomadic culture and has gradually formed an independent dance system. Movement motifs that imitate eagle flight and flowing water, the use of splendid long-sleeved garments and ornate accessories, and performance spaces linked to religious rituals and festivals all embody reverence for nature, devotion to the divine, and the symbolism of community and identity. The circular formations used in the dance further signify unity and cosmic harmony, reflecting the Tibetan worldview of “the unity of heaven and humanity” and a collective value orientation.
The movement vocabulary employs rhythmic knee vibrations as the primary kinetic source, while the swinging, tossing, and spiraling of water sleeves serve as core expressive devices. Together, these elements create a unique sense of dynamism that harmonizes upper-body fluidity with lower-body stability, forming an integrated structure of song-and-dance performance. At the same time, strong improvisational qualities emerge in emotional expression; although the dance maintains fixed frameworks, performers constantly alter lyrics and movements in response to the atmosphere and inner resonance of the moment. Each performance becomes a fresh act of emotional creation, reflecting the forthright and optimistic character of the Tibetan people.
Based on this analysis, the study applies the stylistic characteristics of Weishu Imu to create a dance work titled “Light on the Path Before the Frontiers.” The work seeks to infuse new artistic vitality into this ancient dance tradition by preserving traditional movement vocabulary and cultural symbolism while integrating contemporary stage aesthetics and interpretive meaning. The findings demonstrate that Weishu Imu serves not only as a “living cultural text” embodying Tibetan dance culture but also as a crucial medium that fosters ethnic cultural exchange and cultural pride through creative reinterpretation. Furthermore, it provides a practical model for the creative inheritance of Chinese traditional dance and contributes to the safeguarding and transmission of intangible cultural heritage.