At Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater, the ancient art of Sichuan Opera—honed over three centuries—is experiencing a vibrant renewal. Shen Tiemei, vice chairwoman of the China Theatre Association and theater director, emphasizes its enduring spirit: \"Sichuan Opera embodies wisdom passed through generations, adapting to challenges while preserving its soul. Resilience is encoded in its very movements.\"
Now, a wave of post-2000s actors like Wan Yuehan are injecting fresh creativity into this heritage. \"I’m inspired by the unyielding dedication of older performers,\" says Wan. \"Their perseverance teaches us to honor tradition while making it our own.\"
This philosophy shines in their modern retelling of \"The Legend of the White Snake,\" a classic tale resonating with Sichuan and Chongqing’s indomitable spirit. The adaptation blends traditional *bian lian* (face-changing) techniques with contemporary staging, symbolizing the region’s fusion of history and innovation. For global audiences, this evolution underscores how Asia’s cultural treasures thrive through dialogue between past and present.
