Performers with disabilities pursue artistic dreams in Ningbo

A group of performers with disabilities, with the support of a company in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, have been encouraged to pursue their artistic dreams while working.

The Jianjiuhe Art Troupe includes 31 people, 30 of whom have disabilities. The average age of the performers is 25. The troupe was formerly called the "Xinling Art Troupe", which was established and performed in northern China. Due to the pandemic, the troupe faced severe financial challenges and was nearly disbanded.

Yao Guoxiang, chairman of Ningbo Shunyun Electronics Co Ltd and Zhejiang Jianjiuhe Medicine Group, invited the members to work at his factory in Yuyao, a county-level city in Ningbo.

"As dancers, working in a factory is totally alien to us. But the company appointed us to different positions depending on our physical and mental conditions. And various services and subsidies, such as free physical examinations, free catering, and renting subsidies, have been offered. It makes us feel respected and welcomed," said Yu Yongzhan, head of the troupe.

Outside of their daily work, the members are continuing to practice and participate in every performance held at the company. Impressed by their persistence and passion, Yao decided to help them reestablish an art troupe called "Jianjiuhe Art Troupe".

"They shine on stage. That's why we want to build a platform for them to pursue their artistic dreams," Yao said.

Since then, the Jianjiuhe Art Troupe has brought their performances to more audiences. In June, they received an invitation from the Hangzhou Asian Games Organizing Committee to perform at the opening ceremony of the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou on Oct 22.

Members of the Jianjiuhe Art Troupe with disabilities perform a dance. [Photo/Tianmu News]