Chongqing, China — At just 10 years old, Wan Yuehan embarked on a journey that would intertwine her life with one of China's most treasured cultural legacies: Sichuan Opera. Now, as a post-2000s actress at the Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater, she breathes new life into the iconic role of Lady White in The Legend of the White Snake, captivating audiences both young and old.
While many of her peers gravitate towards contemporary entertainment, Wan delves deep into the traditional art form, mastering the intricate performances that define Sichuan Opera. She is part of a dynamic team of actors and performers born in the 2000s, all of whom began their training at a young age. Together, they showcase the enduring allure of the tale of Bai Suzhen and Xu Xian, proving its timeless resonance across generations.
The Legend of the White Snake tells the enchanting 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 are woven throughout, making it one of Sichuan Opera's most beloved narratives.
In the world of Sichuan Opera, roles are rich and diverse. The Huadan represents the lively, straightforward maiden, while the Wudan, portrayed by Wan, embodies female characters skilled in martial arts. Donning the elaborate costume of Lady White, Wan magnificently showcases her martial prowess and passionate performance, fully embracing the Wudan character.
Recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in traditional Chinese culture, fueled in part by social media platforms. Wan's short videos highlighting her talent and the beauty of Sichuan Opera have gone viral, attracting a new generation to the art form. Young audiences are rediscovering The Legend of the White Snake and other classic performances, bridging the gap between age-old traditions and modern appreciation.
Originating around 1700 in Sichuan province, Sichuan Opera is renowned for its dramatic features like 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, resonating powerfully with today's audiences both in China and around the world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
