“Gzhas-chen”in large ceremonies

“Gzhas-chen”is a form of art performed during large ritual ceremonies. Compared to other traditional forms of singing and dancing of Tibetans, Gzhas-chen is unique in terms of its content, scale, costume and properties.

“Gzhas-chen”consists of three parts. The first part is the opening song and dance; the second part,”Gzhas,”is the major content and the third part is the auspicious epilogue. Drawn from a long history, it is an art form of congratulation, popular in Shigatse and Shannan prefectures.

The performance of “Gzhas-chen’ in Shannan prefecture

For example, the “Sayang Gzhas-chen”in Changlong, Gamba County in Shigatse is performed by four male and five female performers. Subject to the requirements of the formal performers, villagers take part in the performance. The formal performers dance in the inner circle while the non-formal performers dance in the outer circle.

Shannan”Gzhas-chen”is popular in the 12 counties of Shannan prefecture, but known under different names in different counties. The performance of Gzhas-chen normally consists of “Tai Gzhas”(slow melody),”Songa dance steps”(dumb dance), and “Ka-gzhas”(oral recitation dance).

This performance is only staged during important ceremonies such as weddings and is thus called “auspicious singing and dancing.”

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