Chongqing, China – In an era where modern entertainment dominates the lives of young people, a group of Generation Z performers is breathing new life into the ancient art of Sichuan Opera. Leading the charge is 22-year-old Wan Yuehan, a post-2000s actress from the Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater, who captivates audiences as the legendary Lady White in \"The Legend of the White Snake.\"
Wan's journey into the world of Sichuan Opera began at the tender age of 10. While many of her peers were drawn to contemporary music and electronic games, she immersed herself in the rigorous training of traditional Chinese performance arts. \"I was fascinated by the rich stories and the expressive power of Sichuan Opera,\" Wan recalls. \"Bringing these characters to life is both a privilege and a responsibility.\"
She is not alone in her passion. Wan is part of a vibrant team of actors and performers, most of whom were born in the 2000s and started their opera journeys at a similar young age. Together, they demonstrate how the timeless story of Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian continues to captivate new generations.
\"The Legend of the White Snake\" is an iconic tale in Chinese culture. It tells the story of Bai Suzhen, a benevolent snake spirit who transforms into a beautiful woman and falls in love with a mortal man, Xu Xian. Their love faces numerous trials, blending themes of romance, betrayal, and sacrifice. In the Sichuan Opera adaptation, the story is enriched with regional artistic expressions and dramatic techniques.
In Sichuan Opera, roles are intricately defined. 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 allows performers like Wan to showcase a range of talents, from delicate singing to dynamic acrobatics. \"When I don the costume of Lady White, I feel her strength and her vulnerability,\" says Wan. \"It's an incredible experience to connect with audiences through her story.\"
The resurgence of traditional Chinese culture in recent years, propelled by social media, has brought art forms like Sichuan Opera back into the spotlight. Wan and her fellow performers have embraced digital platforms to share short videos of their performances. These clips have gone viral, drawing young audiences into the world of \"The Legend of the White Snake\" and other traditional narratives.
Sichuan Opera, which originated around 1700 in Sichuan province, is renowned for its dramatic flair, including the famous face-changing technique, a cappella singing, and an off-stage chorus that adds depth to the performance. Practitioners describe it as \"hot and spicy,\" reflecting the boldness of the regional culture. Despite its ancient roots, the opera resonates with modern themes, making it accessible to today's audiences.
\"We are thrilled to see more young people showing interest in Sichuan Opera,\" says Li Wei, the director of the Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater. \"Performers like Wan are essential in bridging the gap between tradition and the contemporary world.\"
The dedication of these young artists is not only preserving a vital part of Chinese heritage but also ensuring that it continues to evolve. As Wan and her peers continue to innovate while respecting tradition, they are paving the way for a new era of Sichuan Opera that speaks to audiences both at home and abroad.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
