The Moranbong Band made a debut in July, displaying the development of stage art in the country.

Comprising less than 20 instrumental and vocal musicians, its performance moved the people's heartstrings with refined rendition and emotional or cheerful vocal songs. The performance took a new aspect in all musical essences ranging from arrangements to instrumental techniques.

The band helped significantly celebrate holidays, including the anniversaries of the Korean people's victory in the Fatherland Liberation War and the Workers' Party of Korea.

The Unhasu Orchestra, too, rose to fame with colorful performances given to mark the International Women's Day and the May Day.

The Mansudae Art Troupe and the Phibada Opera Troupe, well known at home and abroad, put on stages new numbers vibrant with the present-day spirit, greatly encouraging the people to effect fresh innovations in production and construction.

Last year witnessed the 500th performance of the light comedy "An Echo among the Hills", a winner of Kim Il Sung Prize, and the 1500th performance of the revolutionary opera "The Flower Girl".

Meanwhile, the DPRK won top prizes at the 6th Valencia International Circus Festival and the 10th Wuhan International Acrobatics Festival.