Excerpts of Kun Opera

Jiangsu Performing Arts Group Kun Opera Theatre (Mainland China)

17/5|Sunday|7:30pm     Macao Cultural Centre Grand Auditorium     Tickets: MOP 250, 180, 100

Kun Opera, a blooming tradition

Performers: Shi Xiaomei, Zhao Jian, Li Hongliang, Gong Yinlei, Qian Zhenrong, Gu Jun, Cao Zhiwei, Dan Wen, Zhang Zhengyao and Cong Haiyan

Programme:
“The Trodden Umbrella” from The Secluded Boudoir
“The Monastery Gate” from The Cat o’ Nine Tails
“Seeking the Dream” from The Peony Pavilion
“The Tower by the Lake” from To Gain A Peerless Beauty
“Reprimanding the Father” from The White Silk Shirt

Originating in the Yuan Dynasty, the time-honoured Kun Opera encompasses the very essence of Chinese performance art and is regarded as the “paragon of Chinese opera”. Over the generations, this art form was passed down from master to disciple viva voce. Kun Opera was in the spotlight internationally in 2001 when it was listed as one of the “Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO. Even though over 600 Kun Opera plays have been preserved over the years, this art form is still in need of protection.

Based in Nanjing, the ancient capital of the Six Dynasties, the Jiangsu Performing Arts Group Kun Opera Theatre’s guiding principles are the preservation and passing on of this important traditional art form. The group is comprised of experienced performers, fourth generation disciples of the renowned “Chuan” artists, who are able to cover a variety of role types, reaching new heights with innovative elements while staying true to tradition. The performers are all award-winning artists with a rich experience of Kun Opera performance overseas, who have established a reputation around the world.

Performed in the Zhongzhou dialect, with surtitles in Chinese, Portuguese and English
Duration: approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including one interval