At just 10 years old, Wan Yuehan embarked on a journey that many of her peers might find unconventional. While others were exploring modern entertainment, Wan delved into the rich world of Sichuan Opera, a traditional Chinese art form dating back to the 1700s. Today, as a young performer born in the post-2000s era, she brings to life the legendary character of Lady White in \"The Legend of the White Snake\", captivating audiences both young and old.
Wan is part of a vibrant team of Gen Z actors and performers from the Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater, many of whom began their opera journeys at a similarly young age. Their passion and dedication highlight 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, weaving themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice. It tells the story of Xu Xian, a mortal man who falls in love with Bai Suzhen, a snake spirit transformed into a beautiful woman. In Sichuan Opera, this narrative is enriched by the unique duality of roles. The Huadan role typically portrays a lively, straightforward maiden, while the Wudan role, mastered 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 both martial prowess and passionate performance. \"Sichuan Opera allows me to express a depth of emotion and strength through Lady White,\" she shares. \"It's an honor to bring this character to life for new audiences.\"
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in traditional Chinese culture among younger generations, fueled in part by social media platforms. Wan's short videos showcasing her talent and the vibrancy of Sichuan Opera have gone viral, drawing a fresh wave of young enthusiasts into the world of traditional performances.
Known for its dramatic features like face-changing, a cappella singing, and dynamic off-stage choruses, Sichuan Opera is described by its practitioners as \"hot and spicy.\" This expressive art form captures the essence of Chinese traditional performance, resonating with modern audiences seeking cultural depth and authenticity.
As Gen Z performers like Wan Yuehan continue to embrace and reinterpret traditional arts, they bridge the gap between the old and the new. Their dedication ensures that classics like \"The Legend of the White Snake\" remain alive, dynamic, and relevant in today's rapidly changing cultural landscape.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
