Shows, tours and film as China marks 90 years since the end of the Long March
China’s ruling Communist Party is marking 90 years since the end of the Long March with exhibitions, tours, film and television productions as it tries to mobilise the nation to contribute to its vision for the future. Ahead of the October 22 anniversary, commemorative activities are under way to promote the history of the Long March and revive its “spirit”. The Long March was an epic retreat…
China's ruling Communist Party is commemorating 90 years since the end of the Long March with exhibitions, tours, film and television productions. The epic retreat between 1934 and 1936, when the party's Red Army fled Kuomintang forces, is seen as a symbol of resilience and sacrifice. President Xi Jinping called for a "new Long March" in 2016, emphasizing the need to achieve the party's goals and realize the Chinese dream of rejuvenation.
Local authorities and cultural bodies have organized a series of celebrations, particularly at key locations along the Long March route. Exhibitions featuring historical photographs and relics have opened in museums and memorial halls across Beijing, drawing large crowds. One exhibition, "Promoting the Great Long March Spirit, Embarking on the Long March of the New Era," showcases the spirit of the Long March and its relevance to the current era.
Interactive installations, such as "Frozen Memories," allow visitors to experience the biting cold faced by Red Army soldiers during the trek. A five-episode documentary series, "Three Days in Zunyi," highlights the historical significance of the Zunyi Conference, where Communist leaders convened to change their strategy and see Mao Zedong take leadership of the party and military.
The Red Army Long March Library, housing historical materials related to the trek, opened in Luzhou, Sichuan province. Six new publications on the Red Army's expedition through Sichuan were released to mark the anniversary. In Gansu province, a tour retracing the Red Army's steps has been launched for young Chinese, allowing them to visit revolutionary memorials and sites.
Shanghai hosted a special concert by the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, featuring pieces inspired by the Long March. Hong Kong and Macau also organized activities, including a tour for young people to visit the mainland and retrace the Long March, visit revolutionary heritage sites, and experience the culture of the time. Several films are set to be released during the National Day holiday, including "The Woven Promise" and "Light Chaser," both centered on the Long March.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.