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Volume 4,Issue 1

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26 October 2025

Keys to a Successful Modernization: Case Study on the Choreographic Transformation of Haiyang Yangko

Lu Liu1 Nurulakmal Abdul Wahid1
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1 Faculty of Music and Performing Arts, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, 35900 Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia
CEF 2025 , 3(9), 75–80; https://doi.org/10.18063/CEF.v3i9.1078
© 2025 by the Author. Licensee Whioce Publishing, Singapore. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License ( https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ )
Abstract

Haiyang Yangko, a traditional folk dance recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage of China, has undergone transformative developments in recent decades. As contemporary audiences seek more resonant and innovative artistic expressions, choreographers have been working to modernize Haiyang Yangko without compromising its cultural essence. This study investigates the key factors contributing to successful modern interpretations of Haiyang Yangko by analyzing select case studies and applying perspective and case analysis methods. Findings reveal that successful modernization hinges on thematic innovation, choreographic fluidity, audience engagement, and symbolic adaptation. These elements enable choreographers to honor tradition while creating emotionally engaging and visually compelling performances that resonate with today’s viewers. This paper provides a theoretical and practical reference for choreographers, educators, and cultural policymakers dedicated to the preservation and reinvention of folk dance traditions.

Keywords
chinese folk dance
haiyang yangko
dance movements
transformation choreography innovation
References

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