The 2024 Chinese Opera (Kunshan) Festival has kicked off in Kunshan, a vibrant city in Jiangsu Province, China. This year’s festival, themed “The Grand Event of Chinese Opera, the Festival of the People,” runs from September 5 to September 23 and promises an exciting blend of online and offline events.
The festival features an impressive lineup, showcasing 87 performances across 22 different opera genres. A total of 45 opera troupes will participate, including 23 award-winning performers recognized for their exceptional talent. The festival provides a platform for the exchange and development of Chinese opera, attracting renowned masters and rising stars alike.
The opening ceremony on September 5 highlighted the dedication to nurturing young talent. Fifteen performers were awarded certificates for their contributions to Chinese opera, recognizing their participation in the national leading talent training program. Additionally, seven celebrated opera masters, each with an average age of 65, delivered a series of classic opera excerpts, setting the stage for the festival’s rich performances.
Beyond the dazzling performances, the festival embraces cultural integration. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Chinese opera through exhibitions, dialogues, and cultural fairs. These experiences offer a deeper understanding of the rich heritage and artistic significance of Chinese opera, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
The festival also places great importance on preserving traditional opera techniques and nurturing future generations of performers. Renowned national opera masters deliver lectures on unique singing styles, musical compositions, and orchestration, ensuring that the art form continues to flourish.
Since its inception in 2018, the Chinese Opera (Kunshan) Festival has emerged as a vital platform for promoting and preserving Chinese opera. This year’s festival, co-organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and local authorities in Jiangsu Province, reaffirms its significance in showcasing Chinese opera to national and international audiences. The festival stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Chinese opera, fostering cultural exchange, nurturing talent, and promoting this treasured art form.
