The production also requires many performers to take on multiple roles, and Sun Fubo is one of them.

His main role is Lei Lyutai, a Shanxi merchant from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and a leading figure in China's early financial sector. Sun also plays the roles of other characters in the production.

"I hope that by watching this dance, the audience will deepen their understanding of Shanxi's age-old history and culture, and maybe develop an interest in visiting the province," Sun says.

"We would also like to portray the development of the Silk Road, including the cultural exchanges of different countries and the concept of global unity, to people from around the country and around the world."