The 27th Traditional Myanmar Cultural Performing Arts Competition 2026, featuring more than 2,400 contestants from various regions and states, is being held in grand style at designated venues in Nay Pyi Taw, the capital of the State, from 21 to 29 October.
The Performing Arts Competition is being organized with four objectives: to enhance national prestige and integrity, and preserve the traditional cultural heritage of ethnic people; to preserve national characteristics and promote the national spirit, cherishing traditional culture among the younger generation; to explore, preserve and promote the sustainable development of traditional Myanmar arts; and to function as a cultural and artistic institution that contributes to nation-building.
The Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competition was first held in 1993, more than 30 years ago. If these competitions had not been held annually, some traditional cultural and artistic disciplines might have faded, fallen into obscurity, disappeared or become distorted over the past three decades. Therefore, we must faithfully fulfil our responsibility to preserve and safeguard the cultural heritage that remains clearly identifiable today, ensuring that it is neither lost nor damaged and can endure for generations to come.
Through repeated and intensive practice to improve their artistic skills and perform confidently and proficiently in competitions, contestants have become familiar with the subtle intricacies and high standards of traditional cultural and artistic disciplines and have learned to appreciate their value. The singing, dancing, composition and music competitions have also helped pass down traditional heritage from one generation to the next and fostered the emergence of renowned local performers and nationally acclaimed artists. This demonstrates that holding these competitions every year has not been in vain.
Despite changes and advances over time, and the growing influence of modern cultural and artistic forms, Myanmar’s traditional cultural arts, which have flourished for thousands of years, have neither faded into obscurity nor disappeared. Instead, they continue to be cherished and supported by the people of all national races to this day. This will be clearly demonstrated through these competitions.
If national culture weakens, a people’s distinct identity will also diminish, and, in the long run, the ethnic group itself could disappear. The Performing Arts Competition serves as a dignified platform for preserving and safeguarding national culture and the cultures of ethnic nationalities, as well as passing these traditions on to younger generations. Therefore, everyone involved in the competition must take their responsibilities seriously and work with the utmost care and commitment to ensure that the competition achieves its objectives and succeeds as intended.
#TheGlobalNewLightOfMyanmar