A stunning puppet performance from a French troupe is staged in Anji county. [Photo/Tide News]

Anji county in Huzhou, Zhejiang province, celebrated the Spring Festival holiday with a unique twist this year, featuring a 3.7-meter-tall "Birdman" puppet enchanting crowds with its whimsical, fairytale charm.

This spectacle was part of a performance by the French troupe "Tomorrow Changes Everything", which has been captivating audiences across China since its debut in 2024.

The afternoon began with Birdman and His Chimera Band, followed by The Fire People in the evening. Known affectionately as the "Birdman Troupe" by Chinese fans, the group has performed in locations such as Zhejiang's Wuzhen ancient town and Shaanxi province's Xi'an, earning widespread acclaim.

Audience member Ms Gao remarked, "The performances are quite artistic and different from traditional lion and dragon dances, making the Spring Festival holiday special."

Yang Yang, deputy general manager of Anji Weike Urban Operation Management, said, "Bringing the international street performances during the Spring Festival holiday adds extra color to our local celebrations."

Sarah, a French performer and artistic director of the troupe, said, "Chinese mythology and folklore are deeply ingrained in daily life, making it easy for audiences to engage with our imaginative performances."

Founded in 2015 in the suburbs of Paris, the troupe collaborates with local communities, where the "Birdman" puppet was originally conceived. The members of the troupe include musicians, circus performers, actors, and puppet makers.