Kunqu veterans to stage Beijing show in honor of ancient art form

[Photo provided to China Daily]

Artists from the three troupes have "witnessed history in the making" with the recreation of the Kunqu masterpiece, says Zhang.

He will perform once again next week.

"I am as excited as I was 60 years ago," he says.

"Many of the country's traditional art heritage has been lost. Fortunately, we can still enjoy the 600-year-old Kunqu Opera today. It's our responsibility to preserve it."

In 2001, UNESCO listed it as a major masterpiece of oral and intangible heritage of humanity.

Kunqu has also influenced other Chinese musical theaters, including its more famous cousin, Peking Opera.

According to Zhang, before the 1956 debut of Fifteen Strings of Coins in Beijing, Kunqu struggled to survive with a shrinking market and very few artists. Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe was the only known such troupe in China back then and is credited with saving the ancient art form with Fifteen Strings of Coins.

Since 1956, seven Kunqu Opera troupes have been established in the country and young performers have joined the Zhejiang troupe to learn from seasoned actors and actresses.

Liu Yilong, 73, and Ji Zhenhua, 76, both masters from Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe, were among those who trained at the Zhejiang troupe.

They will also perform in the upcoming show in Beijing.