Xie Dance
( 2005-10-17 )

Xie is a dance to the accompaniment of a stringed instrument. In the hinterland of Southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region it is called Kangxie (dances from Kang). In Batang and Chamdo it is called Ye, a variation of the "Xie" sound.

The dance is popular in Batang, Chamdo, and Gyangze in Tibet and areas of Northwest China's Qinghai Province. At festivals and on outings in the Linkas (parks) in Batang and Chamdo, men and women dance face to face in two lines. A person, playing a stringed instrument made of ox horn, usually stands at the head of the two lines, directing the dancers.

The dancers dance in a circle or randomly, sometimes resembling a winding dragon. They sing to each other to express their feelings. Along with the trill in their singing, there is a kind of "trill" in their dance, most of which mimes the movements of the peacock.

The graceful movements flow naturally and are characterized by broad, slow steps and the pointing of the feet toward the ground. The dancers wave their sleeves while turning, creating a fascinating scene of flying sleeves.

Peacock Drinking Water is an exhibition dance designed by Tibetans to express their wishes for good fortune and happiness.