THE unique charm of Kunqu Opera has impressed generations of spectators. People are often enthralled by the romantic themes, as well as its refined language and elegant dance sequences.
To mark the 10th anniversary of Kunqu Opera's inclusion on UNESCO's Masterpieces of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity list, a Kunqu Opera Festival will be held from tomorrow to May 23 at Shanghai Grand Theater.
The festival features nine performances by more than 80 acclaimed young Kunqu Opera artists from across the country, including Wang Fang, Gu Haohao, Qian Zhenrong and Shen Yili.
Programs include operatic excerpts from classics such as "The Palace of Eternal Youth," "The Peony Pavilion," "The Jade Hairpin" and "Lanke Mountain."
" We will also host academic workshops on the preservation and future development of the art form," says Liu Wenguo, a festival organizer. "Thirty noted Kunqu Opera artists and critics will express their opinions about each performance."
To attract young spectators, performances will feature some impressive stage effects, costumes and more easy-to-understand performing styles.
The diversity of modern-day entertainment has not only pushed Kunqu Opera to make some changes, but poses a new challenge to Cantonese Opera as well.
Celebrated Cantonese Opera artist Ni Huiying's highly anticipated "The Three Families Alley" will showcase the innovation her troupe is renowned for.
The Cantonese Opera show will be staged at Shanghai Oriental Art Center on June 11-12, as part of the center's Series Performances of Chinese Traditional Operas (May 21 to July 9) covering Peking Opera, Yueju Opera and Shanghai farce.
Adapted from a widely known novel in the 1950s to 60s, "The Three Families Alley" takes place during the turbulent 1920s and 30s as three young people pursue freedom, romance and equality.
"Young audiences today will be inspired by the passion, energy and patriotism of the characters," Ni says. "The ballads, folk arts and customs featured in the play will also provide insight into the unique culture of Guangdong Province."
During Ni's 40-year career, she has witnessed the rise and fall of traditional operas. Modern stage elements, exquisite scenes and fashionable costumes will be combined with traditional vocals to cater to the tastes of modern audiences while not losing the opera's original appeal.
Several schools in Guangdong have integrated traditional opera arts into their curriculum based on her suggestions.
