Celebrating Heritage: 25th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competition

The 25th Anniversary (Silver Jubilee) of the Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competition is currently underway in Nay Pyi Taw, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the nation.

On Saturday, the sixth day of the event, the Marionette Contest for the Amateur Level (Second Class) took place at the Myanmar International Convention Center -2, featuring 12 talented contestants from various regions and states.

Contestant, Chin State Representing Team, Zin Ko Khant said "We have made preparations in advance for competing in the marionette contest. We need to work hard to become familiar with the stringing techniques and performance styles. To reach this central level, we had to compete in the township and district contests. I’m very excited to participate and compete against experienced contestants."

Contestants in the Women and Men Amateur Level (Second Class) Marionette Contest are tasked with performing the Prince and Alchemist figures. They are evaluated based on five key criteria: variety of dance patterns, alignment with the musical beats, body posture and narrative style, appearance of marionette figures and cloth designs, and melodious performance.

Judge, Marionette Contest, Khin Maung Htwe said "Organizing a competition like this is essential for preserving the traditional cultural heritage of all ethnic groups and preventing its extinction. It is crucial for a nation to safeguard its culture. I truly appreciate the government for organizing this competition, as it provides us with a chance to showcase our culture to the world."

With over 2,500 contestants participating from across the nation, the 25th Anniversary (Silver Jubilee) Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competition is being held from October 14th to 20th. The event aims to uplift national prestige and integrity and to preserve the cultural heritage and national characteristics, to explore, preserve and uplift the traditional cultural heritage of performing arts of ethnic nationals and national cultural characteristics, to explore and preserve the traditional cultural heritage for the young generation and further propagate the national spirit and to serve as a national cultural entity for State development, peace and stability.