An open-air cross-talk performance is held at Huangyaguan Great Wall. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A cross-talk performance held at the Huangyaguan section of the Great Wall in Tianjin drew more than 1,500 spectators on Saturday, bringing traditional Chinese comedy to a historic mountain setting.

Departing from conventional indoor theaters, the open-air event took place against the backdrop of ancient fortifications that once served as a key military stronghold. The show featured five distinct cross-talk segments blending humor with cultural heritage.

"Our mission is to turn this majestic Great Wall into a bridge between ancient and modern times," said Zhou Jidong, chairman of the Tianjin Jizhou Tourism and Culture Group. "We aim to revitalize historical culture for today's society and inspire a deeper appreciation of traditional arts and China's magnificent landscapes."

Located in the northern Jizhou district, the Huangyaguan Great Wall retains original military installations, including shelters, barracks and defensive embankments, providing insight into ancient defense strategies.

"Hearing cross-talk on the Great Wall was an unforgettable experience," said attendee Wang Yan. "It was a fusion of millennia-old architecture and living performance art. My child and I enjoyed the views and learned more about the cultural roots of cross-talk."

In recent years, Huangyaguan has become a growing cultural and tourism hub, hosting events such as the Huangyaguan Great Wall International Marathon and hiking expeditions that attract participants from around the world.

Zhou said future plans include further exploring the site's archaeological and ecological value and developing new models of cultural-tourism integration. "We hope visitors will not only admire its grandeur, but also connect with the stories and spirit behind the Great Wall," he said.