"Then I realized that Changde sixian wasn't bound by language or borders. It crossed all barriers."

In August, she will perform at the World Expo in Japan, bringing the soul of Changde sixian to an international stage.

In addition to keeping the traditional form alive, Zhang is passionate about connecting Changde sixian with modern trends.

She has experimented with pop elements, rap and animated performances aimed at younger audiences. Zhang and her colleagues have also taken the art form to popular tourist spots, inviting people to experience it firsthand.