The Tibetan song and dance drama "Rainbow of Qomolangma" opened at Shanghai's Majestic Theater on Friday, adding a special tinge to the ongoing Shanghai International Arts Festival.

The drama, performed by the Xigaze Ethnic Art Troupe, is an epic panorama of the local culture, religion, customs and lifestyles of residents of the Xigaze area.

The drama showcases the characteristic folk customs, traditional songs and dances and traits of the Tibetan people through important activities and stages of their lives, including farming, weddings, festivals, pilgrimages and funerals.

The troupe has spent three years on the whole project and aims to promote Xigaze's tourism with its performance.

"We hope to raise the awareness of Xigaze both at home and abroad through a drama like this," said Jinba Luozhu, one of the project's planners. "It's a practical means to boost Xigaze's tourism industry by promoting its unique culture."

Xigaze, meaning "the best manor" in Tibetan, joins the north ridge of the Himalaya Mountains, the highest mountain range in the world. It is the gateway to Mt. Qomolangma, also known as Mt. Everest, the world's highest peak. Aside from the overwhelming mountainous landscape, there are also hot springs and lakes throughout the Xigaze area.