A Spanish folk artist poses with a Shehuo perfomer in Luoyang, China

File photo taken on April 27, 2002 shows villagers gathering on a rooftop to watch a Shehuo performance in Wangwu Township of Jiyuan, central China’s Henan Province. The performance of Shehuo can be traced back to ancient rituals held by ancestors of the Chinese people to worship the earth, which they believe could bring good harvests and fortunes in return. With time, the primitive rituals evolved into the Shehuo festivity, a tribute to the Tudi Gong, a deity who holds sway over fortune and wealth. Most Shehuo performances take place around traditional Chinese festivals, especially at temple fairs of the Spring Festival and the Lantern Festival.

File photo taken on Feb. 11, 2006 shows Shehuo performers staging a show in Xidian Village of Songxian County, central China’s Henan Province.

File photo taken on Sept. 27, 2007 shows a Spanish folk artist with a Shehuo performer at a carnival in Luoyang, central China’s Henan Province. <Xinhua/Wang Song>