Weining Yi People's Cuotaiji

Weining Yi People's Cuotaiji

Weining Yi People's Cuotaiji

It is performed in Shuguang Village, Bandi Township, about 40 kilometers from Weining County, and is hailed as a "living fossil of theater." It was included in the first batch of China's National Intangible Cultural Heritage in [year]. "Cuotaiji" is a transliteration from the local Yi language, where "cuo" means ghost, "tai" means transformation, and "ji" means play, hence it is also known as the "Transformation Play." The performance primarily reflects the production and daily life of the Yi people, covering aspects such as ethnicity, folklore, dance, and rituals. The content can be presented individually or as a joint performance, aiming to celebrate harvests, pray for peace and prosperity, thriving livestock, and favorable weather. The drama features characters such as 2000-year-old Rega Abu, 1500-year-old Adamu, 1200-year-old Mahongmo, and the little child A’an. The props are uniquely shaped and exude a wild, primitive charm. Watching Cuotaiji transports you into the mysterious and rustic cultural world of the Yi people, offering enlightenment and enrichment.

Location

Luojia Village, Bandi Township, Weining Yi, Hui, and Miao Autonomous County, Guizhou Province