The grand finale of Hangzhou Folktale Storytelling Competition was held from August 26 to 27 at the Children’s Branch of Hangzhou Public Library. Young storytellers captivated audiences with their lively performances of classic tales like Lü Dongbin Selling Glutinous Rice Balls, Liang Shanbo Studying in Qiantang, Xu Xian Exposing Fake Medicine, Qian Liu’s Battle with the Tide, Peak Feilai, Dreaming of the Tiger Spring, and many more.

Since its launch in May, the competition has garnered widespread support and participation from schools, libraries, cultural centers, and intangible cultural heritage institutions across Hangzhou. Over 250 children participated, and 74 made it to the final round.

At the finale, the 74 finalists took turns to share their favorite folk legends. The youngest performer was just three years old. Despite their tender voice, they delivered their story with remarkable poise and enthusiasm. One contestant vividly recounted the legend of the local dish, Beggar’s Chicken, using authentic Hangzhou dialect to great effect. The audience was thoroughly entertained. From the clever and kind-hearted White Snake to the eccentric monk Ji Gong, the simple and kind Xu Xian, and the intelligent Zhu Yingtai, the young contestants brought these legendary characters to life. Their performances offered a glimpse into the enduring pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty that lies at the heart of traditional Chinese culture.

The competition was divided into four age groups: kindergarten, lower primary school, upper primary school, and youth. Judges evaluated the performances in real time. Special prizes and first, second, and third place honors were awarded to the most outstanding participants. Additional awards, such as Best Stage Presence Award, Most Promising Storyteller, Most Fluent Dialect Speaker, and Most Popular Storyteller, were given to recognize exceptional performances.

In addition to this competition, the organizer has held themed storytelling events centered around classic legends of the West Lake, the White Snake, and Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai. Intangible cultural heritage preservers were invited to visit ten schools, where they enthralled children with captivating folktales and ignited their appreciation for traditional culture.