June 11 witnessed China's "Culture and Natural Heritage Day". On that day, 
Lingao County, located in western Hainan Free Trade Port, China, held a theme 
promotion event, in which local classic repertoires such as the "Lilimei" and 
the "Puppet Play" and other local classic plays were performed in the popular 
ways to enhance the influence of intangible cultural heritage brands, according 
to Publicity Department of Lingao County Party Committee.

The "Lilimei" is a kind of folk song popular among the fishermen of Lingao, 
with distinctive local cultural color and flavor. It is not only a typical 
representation of the Han folk songs and ballads in Hainan Province, but also 
the supreme fishermen songs with artistic charms in China.

The "Puppet Play" is a rare variety of traditional folk opera in China. The 
puppets and actors perform together, telling humorous and philosophical stories 
with intriguing plots, accompanied by beautiful and witty language. During the 
festivals and holidays, the performances of "Lilimei" and "Puppet Play" are 
important entertainment events in many villages.

Lingao's "Lilimei" and "Puppet Play" performances have been included on the 
third list of the intangible cultural heritage items under state protection.

Lingao County, with profound culture, has been hailed as "the Hometown of 
Chinese Folk Arts", "the Hometown of Chinese Poetry" and "the Hometown of 
Chinese Folk Art Forms". In addition, Lingao boasts of the fame as a "Land of 
Fish and Rice" for its fertile land and abundant products.

Source: Publicity Department of Lingao County Party Committee

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   Link: https://iop.asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=423304

   Caption: The "Puppet Play"