Although my efforts to see a high quality version of Fengyanghuagu were thwarted, my luck turned, and a day later I happened to be in the right place at the right time for a performance of the Ansai Waist Drum dance (Yaoguwu腰鼓舞). Through the efforts of several friends, I was in Ansai county when I learned that a large number of Han villagers had been asked to perform the Waist Drum dance for a special photography project the next day. The top of a hill outside the town had been leveled to create a performing area for about 100 dancers. Though none were professionals, all had been selected for their skill in the Yaoguwu, and they clearly practiced as a group to represent their village. I saw these rural farmers changing into their costumes as they trekked up the steep hill to the performing area. The ensuing performance was thrilling. It was very interesting to see, just a day apart and within a few miles, two very different levels of Han folk dance performance.
[61] On the mountain top for a special performance of the Ansai Waist Drum dance安塞腰鼓in Ansai county, Yan’an 延安. My mother and I had just arrived at the site where the dance was to take place. It was clearly quite cold, and a sparse snow remained on the hillsides around the cleared area. An entire hilltop had been flattened to create the dance space.
Shaanxi Province 2003.
[62] Ansai Waist Drum Dance: The performance was done specifically for photographers.
Shaanxi Province 2003.
[63] Ansai Waist Drum Dancers preparing.
Shaanxi Province 2003.
[64] Ansai Waist Drum Dance: Note photographers in foreground.
Shaanxi Province 2003.
[65] Ansai Waist Drum Dance: At least one hundred dancers participated.
Shaanxi Province 2003.
[66] Ansai Waist Drum Dance.
Shaanxi Province 2003.
Ansai Waist Drum Dance.
Shaanxi Province 2003.
Ansai Waist Drum Dance.
Shaanxi Province 2003.
Ansai Waist Drum Dance.
After the performance, the dancers and onlookers enjoy some impromptu dance.
Shaanxi Province 2003.
