The dance drama Odes to Heroes

The dance drama Odes to Heroes takes the Lingnan intangible cultural heritage of “Yingge” as its core, blending it with contemporary stage art to tell a moving story of patriotism, family, and personal growth. Set in the late 1930s, the story follows a young boy on a fantastical journey during which he gradually comes to understand his father’s decision to journey to Southeast Asia—a path marked by sacrifice and responsibility. Along the way, he also helps his mother unraveled her unresolved grief, completing his own spiritual coming-of-age. Created by a top-tier artistic team, the drama incorporates a rich array of traditional Lingnan elements such as flower-stick juggling, iron-rod puppetry, and wood carving. Through its diverse and innovative theatrical language, Odes to Heroes breathes new life into traditional culture—transforming it into a powerful symbol of emotional resonance and cultural continuity for a new era.