Do Choqai

Do Choqai (also sometimes transliterated as Du Choqai or To Choqai) is a Uyghur cultural and musical tradition, primarily practiced in the southern regions of Xinjiang, China. It is a form of group storytelling performance combining elements of folk music, dance, and oral narrative. The performance typically involves a lead storyteller (the Do Choqai performer) who sings and acts out various roles, accompanied by instrumentalists playing traditional Uyghur instruments such as the dutar, rawap, and tambur.

The narratives conveyed through Do Choqai often relate historical events, legends, folktales, and moral lessons. The content is frequently improvised, adapting to the specific audience and occasion. Performers are highly regarded for their memorization skills, vocal abilities, and acting prowess.

Do Choqai serves as an important cultural and social function within Uyghur communities, preserving and transmitting cultural heritage, providing entertainment, and fostering social cohesion. Its continued practice faces challenges due to modernization and cultural shifts, though efforts are underway to preserve and promote the art form.