Nuo theatre,Nuo drama,Nuo opera,or Nuoxi (traditional Chinese: 儺戲; simplified Chinese: 傩戏; pinyin: nuóxì) is a traditional theatrical art popular in many regions of China. Characterized by its special features such as ferocious masks, unique dresses and adornments, the strange language used in performance, and mysterious scenes, Nuo theatre has been selected[by whom?] as one of the non-material cultural legacies of China. The opera is a religious performance intrinsic to the culture of Nuoism, a type of Chinese folk religion. The purpose of Nuo theatre is to drive away devils, disease and evil influences, and also to petition for blessings from the gods. Singing and dancing are included in Nuo theatre and performers wear costumes and masks.
