Ningbo's intangible cultural heritage, the Meishan Lion Dance, is performed at the 54th Marrakech National Festival of Popular Arts in Morocco. [Photo by Lyu Jiayin for Ningbo Daily]

The art troupe from Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province, concluded a three-day performance at the 54th Marrakech National Festival of Popular Arts, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ningbo and China to Moroccan audiences.

Held from July 3 to 5, the troupe, consisting of artists from the Ningbo Performing Arts Group and the Beilun Meishan Lion Dance Team, participated in Morocco's leading folk arts festival, sharing the stage with the nation's top local ensembles. Supported by the Chinese Embassy to Morocco and the China Cultural Center in Rabat, their performances stood out as a vibrant representation of Eastern artistry.

During the opening ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to Morocco Li Changlin praised the troupe as the festival's only foreign group, noting their high artistic standards and contributions to cultural exchange.

"Ningbo artists performed alongside Moroccan peers, fostering mutual learning and friendship," he said.

The troupe's program was designed to blend technical skill with cultural significance. It began with an energetic fan dance symbolizing good fortune, its intricate choreography highlighting the dancers' precision. This was followed by a technically complex lion dance unique to Meishan, and concluding with a folk dance illustrating China's unity in diversity, the performances invited Moroccan audiences to experience a living tapestry of Chinese traditions.

Local spectators responded enthusiastically, capturing moments and cheering in a festive atmosphere that went beyond mere cultural exchange — it became a powerful symbol of friendship and mutual respect.

Since 2007, Ningbo and Marrakech have maintained a sister-city relationship, with exchanges deepening over the years. This visit further strengthened cultural bonds, creating a meaningful connection between the two cities and reinforcing people-to-people connections through the universal language of art.