Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kunqu Opera, one of China's oldest and most revered art forms. Originating from the Kunshan-Taicang area of Suzhou in Jiangsu Province, Kunqu boasts a rich history of nearly 600 years. This captivating blend of poetry, music, song, and dance has earned it the title of the \"teacher or ancestor of a hundred operas\" in China. Recognized globally, UNESCO proclaimed Kunqu as a \"Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity\" in 2001.
One of Kunqu's legendary pieces, \"Legend of the White Snake,\" tells a timeless love story between Bai Suzhen, the white snake spirit, and Xu Xian, a kind-hearted man she meets by West Lake. To help Xu Xian establish a pharmacy, Bai Suzhen enlists her companion, Xiaoqing, to steal funds from a corrupt official's treasury. With bravery and cunning, Xiaoqing and her team successfully defeat the guards and secure the necessary money.
(All photos are stills from \"Legend of the White Snake,\" by CGTN's Zhang Yuying.)
Reference(s):
cgtn.com