At the heart of China's vibrant Sichuan Opera, a new generation is breathing life into centuries-old tales. Among them is Wan Yuehan, a post-2000s actress from the Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater, who has captivated audiences with her portrayal of Lady White in The Legend of the White Snake.
While many of her peers are drawn to modern entertainment, Wan's journey into the traditional art form began at the tender age of 10. She is part of a dynamic team of young performers born in the 2000s, all of whom embarked on their operatic paths around the same time. 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. Themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice resonate throughout the opera, making it one of the most beloved stories in Sichuan Opera.
In Sichuan Opera, roles are richly varied. The Huadan is typically a lively, straightforward maiden, while the Wudan, embodied by Wan, is a female character skilled in martial arts. This duality adds depth and uniqueness to performances. When Wan dons the costume of Lady White, she fully inhabits the Wudan role, showcasing both martial prowess and passionate emotion.
Recent years have seen a growing interest in traditional Chinese culture, particularly through social media platforms. Young audiences are rediscovering the charm of Chinese opera. Wan's short videos, highlighting her talent and the beauty of Sichuan Opera, have gone viral. Through her online presence, she has drawn even more young people into the world of The Legend of the White Snake and other traditional performances.
Sichuan Opera, which originated in Sichuan province around 1700, is renowned for its dramatic features such as face-changing, a cappella singing, and an off-stage chorus. Described by practitioners as \"hot and spicy,\" it captures the essence of Chinese traditional performance in a way that continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.
The rise of performers like Wan Yuehan signals a hopeful future for traditional arts. As Gen Z artists embrace and reinterpret cultural heritage, they bridge the gap between the past and the present, ensuring that stories like The Legend of the White Snake live on.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
