Bring New Life into the Traditional Art Form: Cantonese Opera

A desire to see Cantonese opera has resulted in a project of government to promote the art form in local universities and the communities. Last month, a gorgeous Cantonese opera feast was held in GDUFS and this art form still retains its place as an important part of Canton's culture.

The beautiful costumes of Cantonese opera

Innumerable melodies and tunes, colorful, intricate, and unique costumes, and lots of traditional elements gave the audience a deep impression. Even some teenagers enjoyed these operas which taught morals and messages.

The martial arts performers in the opera

These plays tell stories about Chinese history, traditions and philosophies. Audiences immersed themselves in the emotional atmosphere. The performers with white and red faces showed their skillsin martial artsand their elegant ways.

Unlike European opera where the composer of the music is praised, in Cantonese opera the music isn't the most important part - the lyrics are. The writers put words into this pool of melodies and tunes. Don't worry about your Cantonese level, the Chinese subtitles and the English subtitles will help the audience understand the plot.

The traditional Chinese instrument uesed in the opera

What surprised us most is the Cantonese opera in GDUFS has incorporated manywestern instruments such as the cello, saxophone, and even the violin whichare often used in place of the er wu. Now, more and more people pay attention to this traditional art form, and new technology will be addedin performances. Those efforts all bring new life into the Cantonese opera.

This stands original

Pictures: Blanca Su