A Duo and the cast of Reborn Beats rehearse in Beijing. CHINA DAILY

Reborn Beats is the story of Ye Zi, a young woman from the mountains, who seeks to adapt to life in the city. In doing so, she abandons her ability to communicate with nature and all living things. However, she repeatedly faces setbacks to love, friendship and dreams. On a rooftop one day, she receives a call informing her that her grandmother is critically ill. This prompts her to return home, setting off a colorful and magical adventure.

Traditional Miao musical instruments, including the lusheng (a reed pipe) and drums, are featured in the production, along with contemporary musical elements.

Once a symbol of modernity, A Duo now dresses in a stunning, richly embroidered Miao-inspired costume as a visual representation of her respect for her cultural heritage. She plays the role of the grandmother, who she describes as a wise, elderly woman with a face full of wrinkles.

"The character reminds me of my own grandmother, who was hardworking, kindhearted, wise, and took care of the family," she says.

A Duo spent about 10 years working on Reborn Beats. Her aim is to show that Miao culture is not some static relic of the past but rather a dynamic, evolving force. She also wants to deliver an inspiring message about the transition of women, a theme that mirrors her personal path of evolution.

Born in Hunan province to a Tujia father and a Miao mother, A Duo gained fame after performing the dance song Goodbye, Carmen on the annual China Central Television Spring Festival Gala in 2005. She was signed by a major Chinese record label and released several pop albums.

However, despite the fame and flashing lights, her life was not without struggles. The pain of personal relationships, career exhaustion, and health issues led her to step out of the limelight.

"I thought about what kind of life I wanted to live, what kind of person I wanted to become, and what I was chasing," she says.