"Xinjiang is a land full of vitality," says Tang Chenglong, the production's chief director. "In places that seem desolate today, there once existed such a brilliant civilization."

In addition to reconstructing ancient Qiuci music and dance, the production incorporates many modern dance elements. As Tang puts it, Uyghur dancers like Maimaiti must also "throw themselves fully into the struggle" onstage.

Tang once heard an expert say that centuries from now, many grotto murals may gradually fade or even disappear.

"What conservators restore," he explains, "is not just the murals themselves, but the artistic spirit they embody." He hopes the production will evoke reflections on human choices and thoughts over time.

Bai Shuhao contributed to this story.