Its unique, wild style and rich inheritance have caused the operas to develop into entertainment that is both highly artistic with important historical value. Jin Zhilin, a seasoned folk culture expert, described Laoqiang as a "living fossil of Chinese operas." After seeing a Laoqiang performance, famous Hong Kong martial arts novelist Jin Yong (Louis Cha) said it was "unparalleled. Excellent. Nothing else could outshine such a wonderful performance."

The works of director Zhang Yimou, composer Zhao Jiping, and actor Ge You have all been influenced by Laoqiang performances.

When the cast of the drama Bailu Yuan, an adaptation of writer Chen Zhongshi's novel of the same name, which includes famous performing artists like Pu Cunxi, Song Dandan, and Guo Da, experienced and observed local life in Shaanxi Province in July and August 2005, they were overwhelmed by local Laoqiang opera performances, and decided to incorporate elements into the drama. Twenty-six folk performers have been invited to join the Bailu Yuan cast. Fourteen of them will sing Qinqiang, another more popular local opera in the province, while the other 12 will perform Laoqiang. Using Laoqiang as the background music for the drama proved to be successful and was very warmly welcomed by audiences.

Presently Laoqiang has been listed as an intangible cultural heritage in the province.

Author: Jeff

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