Dance, dance evolution

SO WHAT IS it all about

Still stepping' lively

Easy Talk: Life after retirement

Guang chang wu originates from folk dances popular in rural communities, where the whole village may joyously join in during important festivals. During the "cultural revolution" (1966-76), group "loyalty dances" were used to express loyalty to Chairman Mao. It has evolved in the 80s to include disco and ballroom dancing choreography, making guang chang wu even more popular.

Group dancing is now practiced more as a way to exercise and keep fit, mostly by groups of middle-aged and elderly men and women. Most are retirees. Under China’s labor regulations, most civil servants retire at 50 to 55 for women, and 60 for men.

The music used for the dances are mainly catchy pop songs with an upbeat rhythm, and some have become very popular.

Popular songs include those from the grassroots duo Legend of The Phoenix. The most recent hit is Little Apple by the Chopsticks Brothers.

"Sometimes I spend my afternoons teaching newcomers. I feel time passes so quickly, and I am happily occupied."

Liang Pinghua