Xiajiang Embroideress: A fascinating premiere in Yiling District

Editor & Translator: Chen Zai, Yichang Three Gorges International Communication Studio
Journalist & Photographer: Zhang Guorong

Xiajiang Embroideress, an original musical drama, premiered to resounding applause on the night of December 16 in Yichang.

The drama tells the inspiring story of Xujiachong Village. To protect the Yangtze River, fishermen set aside what has been their livelihood for generations and leave the village to find work. Meanwhile, their wives picked up the Qianhua embroidery technique as a new means of sustenance.

Qianhua embroidery, which roughly translates to pull (qian) flower (hua), is an intangible cultural heritage from within Xujiachong Village. It is considered a legacy of embroidery from the Chu state in Spring and Autumn (770 to 481 BC) and Warring States (476 to 221 BC) periods. The traditional art involves stitching and locking elaborate patterns onto fabric with differently colored cotton threads. This style of embroidery has been widely applied to pillowcases, handkerchiefs, shoe surfaces, perfumed bags, and wall hangings, embodying wishes for happiness and good fortune.

In recent years, Xujiachong Village has established specialized cooperatives that work to create flexible jobs for embroideresses.