Core Viewpoint - Renowned crosstalk artist Yang Zhenhua passed away on January 19 in Shenyang, marking the loss of a significant figure in the traditional Chinese art form of crosstalk [1][2] Group 1: Biography and Achievements - Yang Zhenhua was born in 1936 in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, and was a representative inheritor of the provincial intangible cultural heritage project "Shenyang Crosstalk" [1] - He received the "Lifetime Achievement Award" at the 8th China Quyi Peony Award in 2014 [1] - His notable works include "Fake Big Empty" and "Chess," which gained nationwide acclaim [1] - Yang studied under the famous crosstalk artist Yang Haiquan and created numerous award-winning pieces from 1960 to 2000, including "Family Reunion," "Beida Cang," and "New Home" [1] Group 2: Contributions to the Art Form - In 1981, Yang Zhenhua pioneered "guitar crosstalk" with his performance of "Joyful Songs and Laughter," which received significant attention [1] - He was honored as one of the "Hundred Literary Figures of Shenyang" in 2000 and received a special contribution award for crosstalk in 2001 [1] - Yang published "Yang Zhenhua's Collection of Crosstalk Performances" in 2004, further contributing to the preservation of the art form [1] Group 3: Philosophy and Legacy - Yang believed that crosstalk is the ultimate expression of language art, requiring deep knowledge, high sensitivity, and quick adaptability from performers [2] - He emphasized that only through excellent performances can audiences find joy, ensuring the true transmission of crosstalk [2] - Yang expressed hope for more young talents to emerge, ensuring the continued legacy of traditional crosstalk culture [2]

Core Points - This year, Shanghai has 9 works nominated for the finals of the 20th Qunxing Award, with a record high nomination rate [1] - The finals will take place from October 12 to 19, with 168 performers from Shanghai participating in 7 works [1] - The performance "Lao Gu Shu: The Landlord is Coming" emphasizes the traditional art form of storytelling with drum accompaniment, showcasing local dialect and culture [1] - The team for "Xin Sheng," the youngest in the finals, consists of 9 students from a local primary school, highlighting the importance of youth engagement in traditional arts [2] - The narrative of "Xin Sheng" addresses the pressures faced by students, reflecting contemporary educational challenges [2] - The participation in the Qunxing Award finals is seen as a significant boost for youth arts education in the Jiading District [2]

Core Viewpoint - The second Shaanbei Storytelling Conference was held in Yulin City, focusing on themes such as wartime memories, rural civilization, and contemporary changes, showcasing the importance of Shaanbei storytelling as a national intangible cultural heritage [1] Group 1: Event Overview - The conference took place from September 8 to 10, organized by the China Quyi Artists Association, the Shaanxi Provincial Federation of Literary and Art Circles, and the Yulin Municipal Publicity Department [1] - Activities included excellent program performances, expert seminars, and special performances by renowned artists, aimed at promoting Shaanbei storytelling [1] Group 2: Cultural Significance - Shaanbei storytelling serves as a unique artistic form that records the historical changes of the Shaanbei region, with the Hongshan District being a key birthplace and transmission area [1] - The collaboration between Shaanbei storytelling and the domestic game "Black Myth: Wukong" has revitalized the art form and significantly enhanced its cultural influence [1] Group 3: Future Development - Local officials expressed intentions to use the conference as an opportunity to foster exchanges among Shaanbei storytelling artists, create more contemporary works, and cultivate talented individuals in the field [1] - Yulin City plans to promote the protection, active inheritance, integration of industries, and dissemination of intangible cultural heritage, aiming for new achievements in preservation efforts [1]