At just 10 years old, Wan Yuehan began her journey into the traditional world of Sichuan Opera. Now a leading actress born in the 2000s 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 dynamic team of young performers who started their opera training at a similar age. This group, composed mostly of Gen Z actors, showcases how the timeless story of Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian continues to resonate with new generations.
The Legend of the White Snake is an iconic tale in Chinese culture, depicting the love story between Xu Xian and Bai Suzhen, a female snake spirit who transforms into a beautiful woman. With themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice, it remains one of the most beloved operas in the Sichuan Opera repertoire.
In Sichuan Opera, the Huadan role is typically a lively, straightforward maiden, while the Wudan role, portrayed by Wan Yuehan, is reserved for female characters skilled in martial arts. This duality adds depth and excitement to the performances. When donning the costume of Lady White, Wan fully embodies the Wudan character, showcasing both her martial prowess and emotional depth.
Recently, there has been a growing interest in traditional Chinese culture, especially through social media platforms. Wan's short videos highlighting her talent and the beauty of Sichuan Opera have gone viral, drawing even more young people into the world of The Legend of the White Snake and other traditional performances.
Sichuan Opera, originating in Sichuan province around 1700, is known for its dramatic features like face-changing, a cappella singing, and its off-stage chorus. Described by practitioners as \"hot and spicy,\" it captures the essence of Chinese traditional performance in a way that continues to engage and inspire modern audiences.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
