Wuchuan Piaose (literally, flying color) originated in Shagang Village of Huangpo Town. It was created by Chen Quheng, a local artist born in the sixth year during the reign of Emperor Xianfeng in the Qing Dynasty. Originally, three of the models were single figures, including Kwan-yin Seated in a Lotus, Shi Qian Stealing Chicken, and the Fairy of Whelk. There was another model called Sanchakou which incorporated two figures contesting in martial arts skills. The performance made a stir in his county and the surrounding area. Out of admiration, tens of thousands of people came to watch the show and they all spoke very highly of it. Afterwards, the performance of Shagang Piaose was invited to many other places. Later, there were tours of such performance on the Lantern Festival in the following years. Wuchuan Piaose has undergone a long process of evolution, from the original "spinning figures," to "figures on the table," and then to the contemporary "flying figures."
Wuchuan Piaose features unique models and a variety of artistic forms. The piaose figures are supported by a hidden steel bar. One model of the piaose figures is composed of two parts. The figures sitting or standing on a counter are called "ping" (literally, screen) and those flying in the air are called "piao" (floating). Usually the performers age between six and twelve. Most of the figures come from historical stories and fairy tales. In recent years, more modern subjects have been adopted. In the past, a model of the piaose figures comprised one "ping" and one "piao." However, nowadays, there can be one "ping" for several "piao," one "ping" for a dozen of "piao," and even a couple of "ping" for a couple of "piao." A model of the piaose figures actually resembles a moving stage.
