At just 10 years old, Wan Yuehan began a journey that many of her peers might find unusual: delving into the rich world of Sichuan Opera. Now a post-2000s actress with the Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater, she brings the legendary Lady White to life in the classic performance, \"The Legend of the White Snake.\"
While many from her generation are immersed in modern entertainment, Wan and her team of actors, all born in the 2000s, have chosen to dedicate themselves to this traditional art form. \"We started our opera journey at a young age, and it's been incredible to see how this timeless story continues to resonate,\" Wan shares.
\"The Legend of the White Snake\" is an iconic tale in Chinese culture, depicting the love story between Xu Xian, a man, and Bai Suzhen, a female snake spirit transformed into a beautiful woman. The opera adaptation captivates audiences with its themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice, making it one of the most beloved performances in Sichuan Opera.
In Sichuan Opera, roles are distinctly categorized. The Huadan role represents lively, straightforward maidens, while the Wudan role—portrayed by Wan—is reserved for female characters skilled in martial arts. Donning the elaborate costume of Lady White, Wan fully embodies the Wudan character, showcasing her martial prowess and passionate performance.
With a growing interest in traditional Chinese culture, especially among younger audiences and amplified through social media, Sichuan Opera is experiencing a revival. Wan's short videos displaying her talent have gone viral, drawing even more young people into the enchanting world of \"The Legend of the White Snake\" and beyond.
Sichuan Opera, originating in Sichuan province around 1700, is renowned for its dramatic features like face-changing, a cappella singing, and vibrant off-stage choruses. Practitioners describe it as \"hot and spicy,\" capturing the essence of Chinese traditional performance art in a way that continues to resonate with modern audiences.
\"It's exhilarating to see people our age embracing Sichuan Opera,\" Wan says. \"We're not just preserving a tradition; we're breathing new life into it for future generations.\"
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
