The ancient town of Chongren, nestled in eastern China, is resonating with the melodies of Yueju Opera as young performers take to its historic stages. Students from the Shengzhou Yueju Opera Art School have swapped traditional theaters for pavilions, ancestral halls, and even lotus ponds, preparing for a series of flash mob performances set to enthrall visitors during the upcoming Labor Day holiday.
“Performing in these unique settings brings us closer to the audience,” shared Jiang Xia, a 26-year-old teacher at the school with five years of experience. “On formal stages, there’s a distance that separates us. Here, people can see our expressions, makeup, and costumes up close, creating a more immersive experience.”
The initiative aims not only to provide tourists with a captivating cultural encounter but also to offer the students valuable opportunities to enhance their skills and build confidence. “Our students gain so much from interacting directly with the audience,” added Jiang. “It helps them grow as performers.”
Yueju Opera, traditionally cherished by the older generations, is experiencing a revival among young people in China. The resurgence is partly attributed to the viral popularity of the contemporary show “New Dragon Gate Inn,” which debuted in March last year. The fresh interest is breathing new life into the classical art form, aligning it with modern tastes while preserving its rich heritage.
Chongren Town, with its picturesque waterways and well-preserved architecture, provides the perfect backdrop for this cultural renaissance. The integration of live opera into the town’s fabric offers visitors a unique glimpse into China’s artistic traditions, seamlessly blending the old with the new.
As tourism continues to boom across the country, initiatives like these highlight the dynamic ways in which historic towns are engaging with younger generations and fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural arts. For travelers seeking an authentic and enriching experience, Chongren’s streets are now alive with the sound of music—in more ways than one.
Reference(s):
Chongren Town: Both old and young shine on stage when music is on
cgtn.com
