Local operas

Tongzi Oprea Tongzi Oprea is a type of simple, primitive performance of praying to God. It is the predecessor of the modern Tong Oprea, which is sung in Nantong dialect to the accompaniment of a gong and drum.

Puppet show Rugao in Nantong is renowned as the “home of puppets”. The puppet show is a traditional art form with a profound history in Rugao. Tourists can enjoy many popular puppet shows such as Madam White Snake, Dayu’s Flood Control, and Wooden Shrimp Dance.

Horse Men Dancing Horse Men Dancing is a type of dance paying tribute to God. It is often performed by men to the accompaniment of a drum and trumpet. The dance is simple, powerful, and vigorous, representing military spirits.

Huling Flower-Drum Dance Huling Flower-Drum Dance is a folk art combining singing and dancing. There are many roles in it, such as male roles, female roles, and clowns. The tones and the stories are various; some are happy while some are sad; some salute love and some disdain social evils.

Hai’an Flower-Drum Dance Hai’an Flower-Drum Dance is a joyful and lively dance performance with a history of around 400 years. It was performed in Zhongnanhai for China’s 50th anniversary celebration. In 2000, it won the highest honor of Chinese folk art “Sange Award”.

Hai’an Dragon-Dance Hai’an Dragon-Dance has a history of more than 400 years, and has been on CCTV many times. In 2002, it was invited to join the Chinese Excellent Folk Art Contest and won the gold award.