Besides middle-aged and elderly audience members, many children and teenagers are attracted to the art form. [Photo by Pei Qiang for China Daily]

Qinqiang Opera, which is performed in the Shaanxi dialect and known for its intense rhythm and high-pitched singing, was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2006.

Developed during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), it became popular in Northwest China, mainly in Shaanxi and Gansu provinces. It typically features a solo singer accompanied by percussion instruments, such as Chinese drums and cymbals, and is often based on historical or legendary stories.