Yizhang Night Story is an ancient form of traditional acrobatic lift performance known as “Tai Ge”, which has been passed down through generations in Yizhang County, Chenzhou City. This captivating art form is mainly found in Yuxi Town of Yizhang County and its surrounding villages, boasting a history spanning several centuries.
Yizhang Night Story showcases a captivating blend of folklore, mythological tales, and theatrical characters, all brought to life on an elevated stage. Using elaborate makeup, costumes, props, scenery, lighting and music, a group of two or four performers weave their enchanting tales under the veil of darkness. The night story activities take place from the first day to the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, with the climax coinciding with the Lantern Festival. As the night story procession unfolds, the streets are adorned with vibrant lights, the crackling of firecrackers fills the air, and the beat of drums and melodious tunes create a lively atmosphere that captivates spectators.
In 2007, Yizhang Night Story was included in the first batch of representative projects of intangible cultural heritage at the municipal level. In 2009, it was included in the second batch of representative projects of intangible cultural heritage at the provincial level. And in 2011, it was listed in the third batch of representative projects of intangible cultural heritage at the national level.