Special performances promote ancient Kunqu Opera
Artists from the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Company staged special performances for local citizens on Thursday to promote the age-old theater, known as “the mother of Chinese operas.”
On May 18, 2001, the 600-year-old Kunqu Opera was listed as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNSECO.
The Kunqu performances were held at six downtown venues, including Yuyuan Garden, Sinan Mansions, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Mall and Xiangming High School. Excerpts from the classic “The Peony Pavilion” and “The Crossroads” were presented.
The artists also displayed makeup skills, costumes and the vocal styles of the ancient theater.
Gu Haohao, director of Shanghai Kunqu Opera Company, said the troupe plans more performances across the city to promote this unique art form.
