UN@80: A Chinese village's journey out of poverty

Villagers prepare for a folklore performance that showcases the traditional lifestyle and culture of the middle reaches of the Yellow River. The open space at the foot of the mountain serves as the stage, and farm tools act as props. The villagers are the actors and actresses. As soon as the village radio announces an assembly, they set aside their farm work and gather for a performance. /CGTN

Villagers prepare for a folklore performance. /CGTN

Villagers prepare for a folklore performance. /CGTN

Villagers demonstrate how they used to prepare the terraced fields for farming during a performance. /CGTN

Villagers perform traditional textile spinning. /CGTN

Villagers demonstrate traditional grain grinding techniques. /CGTN

Villagers demonstrate traditional grain grinding techniques. /CGTN

Villagers register to get paid after their performance. The actors and actresses range in age from 50 to 90. They play their younger selves and offer the audience a glimpse of their old life. Up to four or five shows are given every day during peak tourism seasons. Each actor or actress makes 20 yuan (around $3) for the 70-minute performance. /CGTN

Seventy-two-year-old Gao Nengfeng and his wife change back into their everyday outfits after the show. In addition to performing in the show, engaging in village management tasks such as cleaning, selling tickets and working as tour guides also brings in extra income. /CGTN

Abandoned cave dwellings have been renovated in the distinctive flavor of Loess Plateau in northern Shaanxi Province. /CGTN