At just 10 years old, while many of her peers were captivated by modern entertainment, Wan Yuehan embarked on a journey into the traditional world of Sichuan Opera. Now, as a post-2000s actress with the Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater, she brings the legendary Lady White to life in \"The Legend of the White Snake,\" captivating audiences with her passionate performances.
Wan is part of a young team of actors and performers, all born in the 2000s, who started their opera journeys at a similar age. Together, they demonstrate how the timeless story of Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian continues to enchant new generations.
\"The Legend of the White Snake\" is an iconic tale in Chinese culture. It tells the story of Xu Xian, a man who falls in love with Bai Suzhen, a female snake spirit transformed into a beautiful woman. The opera version, rich with themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice, remains one of the most beloved stories in Sichuan Opera.
In Sichuan Opera, the Huadan role is typically that of a lively, straightforward maiden, while the Wudan role, embodied by Wan, is reserved for female characters skilled in martial arts. This duality of roles adds to the uniqueness of the art form. When donning the costume of Lady White, Wan fully embodies the Wudan character, showcasing both her martial prowess and emotional depth.
With a growing interest in traditional Chinese culture, especially through social media platforms, Sichuan Opera has found its way into the hearts of younger audiences. Wan's short videos, highlighting her talent and the beauty of Sichuan Opera, have gone viral. Her performances have drawn even more young people into the world of \"The Legend of the White Snake\" and other traditional arts.
Originating around 1700, Sichuan Opera is renowned for its dramatic features like face-changing, a cappella singing, and vibrant choreography. Described by its practitioners as \"hot and spicy,\" it captures the essence of Chinese traditional performance in a way that continues to resonate with modern audiences.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
