Exploring the Aesthetic Characteristics of Shanxi Folk Dance and the Integration of Contemporary Aesthetic Culture

raditional Chinese folk dances face increasing challenges in the context of cultural globalization and shifting aesthetic values. This study explores the aesthetic characteristics of Shanxi folk dance and its integration into contemporary cultural expression. Focusing on three representative genres—Tiguzi Yangge, Xiaohua Opera and Flower Drum. The research examines key elements such as movement style, rhythm, costume, and emotion. A qualitative, three-tiered approach was employed, including theoretical review, fieldwork in three regions, and thematic analysis of dance practices in stage productions, university classes, and digital platforms like TikTok and Bilibili. The findings show that Shanxi folk dance embodies strong physicality, symbolic gestures, and regionally rooted visual forms. While traditional formats emphasize ritual and collectivity, modern audiences favor personalization and visual immediacy. Adaptations in choreography, education, and digital storytelling have enhanced the visibility and relevance of these dances. The study concludes that a model of “preservation–transformation–reconstruction” supports the sustainable development of folk dance by balancing cultural continuity with innovation. This research contributes practical insights for revitalizing traditional dance in today's media-saturated environment and provides a framework for connecting regional heritage with global aesthetic trends.