At just 10 years old, most children are exploring hobbies or engrossed in the latest games. But for Wan Yuehan, a post-2000s actress from the Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater, it was the beginning of a lifelong passion for Sichuan Opera. Now in her early twenties, Wan is captivating audiences with her portrayal of the legendary Lady White in \"The Legend of the White Snake\".
While many of her peers are drawn to modern entertainment, Wan and her team of young actors\u2014born in the 2000s\u2014are breathing new life into this traditional art form. Their dedication showcases how timeless stories like that of Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian continue to resonate across generations.
\"The Legend of the White Snake\" is an iconic tale in Chinese culture, telling 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 make it one of the most beloved stories in Sichuan Opera.
In the realm of Sichuan Opera, roles are rich and varied. The Huadan role often portrays lively maidens, while the Wudan role\u2014masterfully performed by Wan\u2014is reserved for female characters skilled in martial arts. Donning the ornate costume of Lady White, Wan embodies the Wudan character with martial prowess and passionate performance, captivating audiences both young and old.
The rise of social media has ushered in a renewed interest in traditional Chinese culture among younger generations. Wan's short videos showcasing her talent have gone viral, introducing countless viewers to the allure of Sichuan Opera and drawing them into the world of \"The Legend of the White Snake\" and other classic performances.
Originating in Sichuan province around 1700, Sichuan Opera is renowned for its dramatic features like face-changing (bian lian), a cappella singing, and dynamic off-stage choruses. Described by practitioners as \"hot and spicy,\" it captures the essence of Chinese traditional performance art in a vibrant and engaging way.
As performers like Wan Yuehan continue to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, Sichuan Opera finds new life and relevance. Their passion ensures that this captivating art form will continue to thrive, enchanting audiences for generations to come.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
