2024 Chinese opera festival kicks off in Kunshan, Jiangsu

The 2024 Chinese opera festival commenced on September 5 in Kunshan, Jiangsu Province, and will run until September 23. This year's festival is themed 'the grand event of Chinese opera, the festival of the people' and features a diverse array of performances, including five major plays, 21 opera excerpts, and contributions from 45 opera troupes, showcasing a total of 87 plays across 22 genres. Notably, 23 performers have received prestigious awards such as the Plum Performance Award or the Wenhua Award, highlighting the festival's commitment to excellence in the art form. The opening ceremony recognized 15 individuals selected for the national leading talent training program in Chinese opera performance, emphasizing the festival's role in nurturing future talent. Following the ceremony, a collaboration of seven esteemed opera masters, averaging 65 years of age, presented classic opera excerpts, providing a rich cultural experience for attendees. This blend of tradition and innovation is a hallmark of the festival. In addition to performances, the festival promotes cultural tourism through various activities, including opera exhibitions, dialogues, and fairs, aimed at immersing audiences in the rich heritage of Chinese opera. The event serves as a platform for young talents, with renowned masters offering lectures on singing styles, musical compositions, and orchestration, ensuring the continued evolution of the art form. Since its inception in 2018, the festival has become a vital venue for showcasing and exchanging different styles of Chinese opera, contributing significantly to the development of talent in this field. Jointly organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and local authorities, this year's festival underscores the importance of cultural events in fostering community engagement and appreciation for traditional arts.