Xuanwu (theatre)

Xuanwu theatre, also known as "Xuanju," is a traditional Chinese performance art combining music, singing, storytelling, and mime, originating from the Xuanwu Gate area in Nanjing. It is characterized by its poetic dialogue, vivid costumes, and symbolic acts that depict historical stories, legends, and moral lessons. Often performed during festivals, Xuanwu theatre emphasizes expressive gestures and musical accompaniment to convey emotion and narrative. Similar to other traditional Chinese opera forms, it requires skilled performers trained in singing, acting, and choreography, serving as a cultural preservation of regional history and artistic heritage.