Odes to Heroes

Yingge is a powerful and award-winning dance drama inspired by the vibrant Yingge culture of Chaoshan. The work incorporates themes of migration, and the rich artistic traditions of Chaoshan culture.

The story takes place in the late 1930s, during a time of great social change. After the father leaves for Nanyang and disappears without a trace, his absence becomes a lingering sorrow for the family. The young protagonist grows up relying solely on his mother, enduring hardship through his formative years. Many years later, on the night of the Lantern Festival, he discovers the Yingge drumsticks left behind by his father, leading him into a fantastical world where memory, history, and destiny intertwine.

As the story unfolds, the dance introduces various aspects of Chaoshan culture, including the Chu Huayuan coming-of-age ceremony, puppet theatre, porcelain inlay art, temple traditions, hand-carved woodcraft, and Chaoshan cuisine.

Through this dreamlike journey, the protagonist gradually uncovers his father’s unspoken sacrifices, feels the unwavering strength of his mother, and comes to understand the profound meaning of family bonds, cultural roots, and the transmission of heritage from one generation to the next.

For enquiries, please contact: admin@namhwaopera.com / 69040030