Wednesday, September 30, 2026 - Chinese singer Na Ying has avoided punishment after performing an unapproved tribute song during a concert in Chengdu, following an investigation by local authorities.
Na sang part of “Curved Moon” during an audience interaction segment on Saturday to honour fellow singer Liu Huan, who had died the previous day. Authorities initially examined whether the unscheduled performance violated China's rules requiring live entertainment content to receive approval in advance.
The Chengdu Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism ruled on Tuesday that Na's performance was only a brief, fragmentary rendition rather than a complete performance of the song.
Because it occurred during audience interaction and did not constitute a change to the approved programme, officials said it did not require additional approval. The decision ended several days of public debate over whether the singer could face a fine or other restrictions.
The case has nevertheless drawn fresh attention to China's tight regulation of live entertainment. Performers can face fines, restrictions or cancelled appearances when they depart from approved programmes, as demonstrated by a recent case involving comedian Guo Degang, whose altered lyrics during a performance prompted action from authorities.
Na's case now highlights the importance of the distinction between an unscheduled full performance and a brief moment of audience interaction under China's current entertainment rules.
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