Reflection

There are a total of 56 ethnic groups in China, each with its own unique culture, traditions, clothing, and way of life. This dance highlights the Mongolic People's appreciation and respect for nature, specifically the Reka Argun' River, which provided water, fertile pasturelands, and forest resources, making it ideal for nomadic herding. Rivers, in many Mongolic traditions, are seen as sacred lifelines. Yet today, many of these natural resources, along with the ethnic groups that depend upon them, their languages, and their rich histories, are disappearing. As their natural habitats vanish, so do their vibrant lifestyles and traditions. Through this piece, I hope to preserve and share the beauty of these traditional folk dances (ex, how they use flowing arm movements to symbolize the currents of the river) and their deep bond to nature. My message to anyone watching this piece is: don’t be afraid to stand apart from “the norm.” Embrace your own style, your roots, and tell the story you want to tell.