Stilt walking, a unique and charming folk tradition, is not only a representative of folk performing arts, but also an important component of Chinese traditional culture. As a highly challenging folk skill, the history of stilt walking can be traced back to ancient times, and different regions have their own unique stilt walking cultures, endowing it with rich cultural connotations and social value.
The origin and history of stilt walking
The origin of stilt walking is not clearly documented, but it is widely believed that this folk custom has a long history in China, dating back to the Warring States period. Scholars have verified that ancient soldiers and fishermen may have first used stilts as a tool to facilitate movement in swamps or muddy terrain.
With the development of history, stilt walking has evolved into a form of folk performance. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, folk artists used stilt walking as an important activity in festivals, temple fairs, and other events. At this moment, walking on stilts is not only to showcase skills, but also to convey blessings. Whenever festivals come, artists from all over the country will wear gorgeous costumes, step on stilts, and come gracefully to the sound of drums and gongs, symbolizing good luck and good fortune.
The performance form and technique of stilt walking
Stilt walking performances are usually performed by multiple actors, who usually wear colorful costumes with distinctive masks and makeup, and their costumes are particularly eye-catching. The content of the performance is diverse, covering various art forms such as martial arts, dance, acrobatics, etc., forming a rich language of performance.
1.Basic skills of walking on stilts include standing, walking, jumping, turning, and other basic movements. Performers first need to adapt to the height and changes in the center of gravity of the stilts, and master the control of the center of gravity and coordination of the body. Beginners often need to practice multiple times under the guidance of a coach before they can walk on stilts smoothly and freely.
2.The diversity of stilts. The height and shape of stilts are diverse, usually designed according to the performance content and regional characteristics. Some stilts can reach up to two meters or even higher, increasing the visual impact of the performance. The stilt walking styles vary in different regions, for example, in some places, actors may combine local unique images to create works that attract the attention of the audience.
3.Interactive stilt walking performances in performances are usually accompanied by drum music and cheers. Artists enhance the atmosphere of the scene through interactions with the audience, such as shaking hands and sending blessings. In addition, the active participation of the entire audience makes the performance more vivid and interesting, which is also one of the reasons why stilt walking as a folk performance has gained widespread popularity.
The cultural significance of walking on stilts
Stilt walking, as a folk art, has profound cultural significance. It is not only a representative of rural culture, but also a inheritor of traditional customs.
1.Auspicious symbolism: In traditional culture, stilt walking performances are closely related to festive activities. Whether it is the Spring Festival, the Yuanxiao (Filled round balls made of glutinous rice-flour for Lantern Festival) or the temple fair, the stilt performance implies the pursuit of harvest, peace and happiness. Every stilt walking performance is not only a continuation of traditional customs, but also a beautiful wish for a better future life.
2.The carrier of rural culture is in many places, and walking on stilts has become a symbol of gathering rural culture. Local communities have strengthened their cohesion and identification with traditional culture by participating in this activity together. This cultural identity helps protect the diversity of local culture and creates a favorable environment for inheritance.
3.With the development of the times, walking on stilts has begun to incorporate more modern elements, attracting the attention of young people. Performers not only inherit traditional skills, but also constantly absorb new art forms, forming a unique modern stilt walking culture. This transformation not only enhances the artistic value of stilt walking, but also provides new possibilities for its future development.
The folk tradition of walking on stilts is an eternal cultural heritage. It not only presents us with the diversity of traditional art, but also carries the people’s expectations for a better life. Through in-depth understanding and promotion of this folk art, we have a responsibility to better inherit it. In the context of the development of modern society, walking on stilts will continue to face new challenges and opportunities, keep pace with the times, and radiate new vitality.
