Experts and scholars gathered in Gansu province on Saturday for a forum on the inheritance and modern dissemination of Dunhuang dance and its evolving role in the modern world, which was part of the 7th Silk Road (Dunhuang) Cultural Expo.

The forum focused on two key topics: historical experiences in creation and future directions in dissemination of Dunhuang dance. Participants delved into dancing's role in cultural exchange, developmental pathways and strategies for international promotion.

Maohui, a researcher at the Chinese National Academy of Arts, emphasized that the production of Dunhuang dance goes far beyond a mere replication of ancient murals.

"From Flying Apsaras to Flower Rains Along the Silk Road, our creative experience teaches us that Dunhuang dance must be based on historical research, breathing life and soul into the art form," she said.

Zhao Xiaogang, a board member of the China Dancers Association, echoed this sentiment, calling Flower Rains Along the Silk Road a"textbook" for modern Dunhuang dance creation.

"We must draw nourishment from historical works and pass on the art through generations, continuously creating performances that resonate with modern aesthetic values," Zhao said.

The forum's second session featured a live performance by young dancer Shen Xubin, who presented a segment of the dance drama Lotus. His graceful and fluid movements, combined with an expressive and expansive physical interpretation, captivated the audience, raising energy levels at the event to their peak.

Deng Xiaojuan, president of Gansu Open University, spoke about the future development of Dunhuang dance. She suggested that the industry should explore models that integrate tourism, culture and creativity, leveraging Dunhuang elements to create cross-disciplinary multimedia works and cultural products.

After more than 40 years of development, Dunhuang dance has grown into a distinctive art form with a unique performance style. It carries the cultural memory and historical legacy of the Chinese nation, embodying China's cultural confidence and creativity.

The dance has played a key role in promoting Dunhuang culture, preserving the cultural roots of the Chinese nation and advancing cultural exchanges along the Silk Road.