Dancheng Yixi- Inheritor of Guoerzi Dance in Burang County, Ngari, Tibet
Dancheng Yixi (旦成益西), born in March 1959, is a renowned Tibetan artist from Burang County (普兰县), Ngari (阿里地区), Tibet. He is the national-level representative inheritor of the Guoerzi Dance (果尔孜舞), a key part of Tibet’s rich cultural heritage. His exceptional skills and dedication have earned him widespread recognition and respect in the field of Tibetan performing arts.
Early Life and Training
Dancheng Yixi developed a deep love for Guoerzi Dance (武艺歌) from a young age. He followed the guidance of local elders and later became a disciple of the renowned artist Qimei Yongzhong. From 2000, Dancheng Yixi became the lead vocalist in Guoerzi performances. His performances blend singing, dancing, and drumming, capturing the essence of ancient soldiers’ battle scenes with the use of knives and shields. His unique style effectively conveys the religious rituals and prayer forms embedded in this traditional dance.
Achievements and Recognition
Dancheng Yixi’s contributions to the preservation and promotion of Guoerzi Dance have been widely recognized:
Local and Regional Recognition
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2010: Dancheng Yixi was officially recognized as the representative inheritor of Guoerzi Dance at the Tibet Autonomous Region level. This recognition was awarded due to his mastery of the art form and his efforts in ensuring its continued vitality.
National-Level Recognition
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May 8, 2018: He was officially designated as a national-level representative inheritor of Guoerzi Dance (果尔孜舞) as part of the fifth batch of national-level intangible cultural heritage inheritors. This prestigious honor recognizes his deep commitment to preserving and passing on this traditional Tibetan dance.
Involvement in Cultural Preservation
As the lead dancer of the Guoerzi team in Xide Village (西德村), Dancheng Yixi has played a central role in maintaining the dance’s traditions. He currently leads a group of 19 dancers and regularly performs at the Xide Laded Monastery (西德拉德寺) during the “Qiangre” ceremonies. His leadership has ensured that Guoerzi Dance continues to thrive and captivate audiences with its powerful display of ancient Tibetan warrior culture.
Support for Heritage Preservation
Since 2021, the Burang County Cultural and Tourism Bureau (普兰县文化和旅游局) has provided dedicated funding to support Dancheng Yixi’s work in safeguarding Guoerzi Dance. These efforts are vital for the ongoing protection and promotion of this unique cultural tradition.
Dance Characteristics and Cultural Significance
Guoerzi Dance is a highly symbolic performance that reflects the ancient warrior culture of Tibet. The dance’s simple yet expressive movements convey the inner strength and emotions of soldiers preparing for battle or returning victorious. Through his performances, Dancheng Yixi demonstrates the warrior’s indomitable spirit and their courage in the face of adversity.
This dance, though easy to sing and learn, requires a deep understanding of the historical and cultural significance behind each movement. Dancheng Yixi has mastered this complex art and can evoke the powerful emotions of soldiers heading into battle or celebrating a triumphant return. His performances have made him a beloved figure in the local community.
