The musical uses digital art and projection technology to present the different phases of the murals' restoration. [Photo/China Daily]

These characters are based on and pay tribute to the generations of experts who've dedicated their lives to the protection of Dunhuang culture, epitomized by the founding director of the Dunhuang Academy, Chang Shuhong (1904-94).

The academy dedicated to the preservation and research of Dunhuang's ancient grottoes is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year.

Back in 1935, Chang was studying oil painting in Paris, where he stumbled upon a photo collection of Dunhuang murals and statues. He was awed by their artistry and concerned about their protection, so he went to Dunhuang where he spent four decades working to preserve its heritage.