Wan Yuehan, a post-2000s Sichuan Opera actress from the Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater, is breathing new life into the legendary tale of The Legend of the White Snake. While many of her peers are engrossed in modern entertainment, Wan embarked on her journey into the traditional world of Sichuan Opera at the tender age of ten.
She is part of a talented team of young performers, all born in the 2000s, who began their opera journeys around the same age. Their dedication demonstrates how the timeless story of Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian continues to captivate new generations.
The Legend of the White Snake is an iconic tale in Chinese culture, depicting the love story between Xu Xian, a mortal man, and Bai Suzhen, a female snake spirit who transforms into a beautiful woman. With themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice, the opera version remains one of the most beloved performances in Sichuan Opera.
In this traditional art form, the Huadan role is typically portrayed as a lively, straightforward maiden, while the Wudan role, played by Wan, is reserved for female characters skilled in martial arts. This duality adds depth to the performances, and Wan's embodiment of Lady White showcases her martial prowess and passionate portrayal, contributing to the unique charm of Sichuan Opera.
The resurgence of interest in traditional Chinese culture, amplified by social media platforms, has helped Chinese opera find its way into the hearts of younger audiences. Wan's short videos highlighting her talent and the beauty of Sichuan Opera have gone viral, inspiring more young people to explore The Legend of the White Snake and other classical performances.
Originating in Sichuan province around 1700, Sichuan Opera is renowned for its dramatic features like face-changing, a cappella singing, and vibrant off-stage choruses. Described by practitioners as \"hot and spicy,\" it captures the essence of traditional Chinese performance art in a way that resonates with modern audiences worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
