Chinese musical Flying Apsaras wins the highest honor, the Grand Prize in the 18th Daegu International Musical Festival in South Korea. Photo: Courtesy of Flying Apsaras

The 18th Daegu International Musical Festival in South Korea announced its awards on Monday, with the Chinese musical Flying Apsaras winning the highest honor, the Grand Prize. Lead actor Gao Tianhe won the Best Actor Award, and the musical received nominations for the Foreign Musical Award, Jury Award, Best Actress, and Best Supporting Actress.

Based on the rich historical civilization of Dunhuang and inspired by the Mogao Grottoes' murals, Flying Apsaras tells the story of generations of Dunhuang cultural guardians through the characters of "The Guardian" and "The Traveler."

The musical intertwines their journeys of protecting and exploring Dunhuang's cultural heritage with classic tales. This innovative narrative pays tribute to the spirit of cultural preservation along the Silk Road.

The media gave Flying Apsaras rave reviews, praising its "magnificent and beautiful" presentation, stunning solo performances, and unique Chinese cultural elements.

Dunhuang, a shining pearl of the ancient Silk Road, represents the fusion of Eastern and Western civilizations and the exchange of diverse cultures. The Flying Apsaras symbolize this cultural blend and the ideal of freedom and joy. By incorporating minimalist stage design, French-style romantic dance, and innovative multimedia elements, the musical brings Dunhuang's beauty and the spirit of its cultural guardians to a global audience.

The Daegu International Musical Festival, second only to the New York International Musical Festival, is the largest musical festival in Asia and has been a landmark event in the global musical theater industry since its inception in 2006.

The festival featured 30 musicals from seven countries, including China, South Korea, the United States, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Japan. Flying Apsaras made its exclusive invited debut at the festival, drawing a full house and receiving a three-minute standing ovation.

Following its success in South Korea, Flying Apsaras will tour Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, and other cities starting in August, continuing its mission to celebrate and share the profound heritage of Dunhuang with the world.