Abstract
Zhanjiang Nuo Dance, a representative intangible cultural heritage of China’s Lingnan region, embodies profound historical and cultural significance through its ritual symbols, symbolic narratives, and collective memory. However, its transmission faces challenges in the context of modernization and urbanization. Drawing on Lotman’s cultural semiotics theory, this study systematically examines the cultural semiotic characteristics of Zhanjiang Nuo Dance, focusing on its ritual symbols (masks, dance movements, and music), symbolic narratives rooted in myths and legends, and its role in shaping collective memory and identity. Furthermore, the study highlights the dynamic and open nature of this cultural form, which has evolved by integrating diverse cultural elements over time. To address the challenges of cultural preservation, the paper proposes innovative pathways for digital empowerment, including digital recording and preservation, symbolic innovation through interdisciplinary integration, interactive dissemination using virtual reality and augmented reality technologies, and educational practices tailored to modern audiences. These strategies aim to enhance public engagement, particularly among younger generations, and ensure the sustainable inheritance of Zhanjiang Nuo Dance. By combining cultural semiotics with digital technology, this research not only provides a theoretical framework for understanding the cultural value of Zhanjiang Nuo Dance but also offers practical solutions for the preservation and revitalization of intangible cultural heritage in the digital age.
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