The Blind Singers of Taihang (Dec.9 19:00-20:40)

Director:Tian Miao
Photographer:Tian Miao,Zhao Liang
Editor:Long Yan,Tian Miao
Length: 100mins
Production: 2006
Subtitles: Chinese & English
Synopsis:
This one hundred minutes documentary focuses on a disabled troupe living in Shanxi Province, China, in the remote country villages surrounded by Taihang Mountains. All the members of this troupe are either blind or limb disabled, even both. This troupe, the Blindmen Propaganda Team of Zuoquan County, was founded in 1930s, and has been serving their music and songs to the local villagers, with their vulnerable bodies and their strong minds. The troupe not only carries and disseminates the traditional folk art, but also spreads tidings from outside world.
This film reveals their daily life in an unvarnished and easy way, tells the stories behind those weather-beaten faces. It expresses their sadness and happiness, through their most touching music and voice.

Tian Miao, born in 1980, graduated from Beijing Film Academy in the summer of 2006, with a master degree in directing. The director used to study science in college, and make TV programs before entering BFA. The Blind Singers of Taihang is the director’s first full length documentary, and also his diploma work.