Vitality of Samawar dance in Xinjiang shines in hustle and bustle of daily life

The vitality of culture lies not only on the stage but also in the hustle and bustle of daily life. Dancing and cheering with performers and tourists in the Qiuci Alley is a unique segment that is often arranged as part of local couples' wedding ceremonies. Residents are always seen seated at tea houses in the alley, playing a dutar or rewap (both traditional Uygur musical instrument) while singing songs which sound cheerful yet melodious.

Looking at the bustling Qiuci Alley and the dancing crowd, Parhat's eyes crinkle with a smile. "Culture and dance are not supposed to be locked away in a chest," he says. In his opinion, the Samawar dance is endless like the snow water rushing down from the Tianshan Mountains. "The dance is alive. It is meant to be performed and passed on to the young."