Music and mystery herald legacy of ancient caves

HONG KONG — As the orchestra filled the air with enchanting melodies that seemed to echo from centuries past, the vibrant fusion of cosmopolitan Hong Kong and the Gobi Desert oasis of Dunhuang in remote Northwest China breathed life into ancient murals, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

At the recent opening of the Hong Kong Palace Performing Showtime Carnival, young musicians played ancient instruments, while giant murals from the Mogao Grottoes flickered on the big screen.

The performance was a testament to the enduring power of art and culture to connect the present with the past, and create a sense of wonder and awe.