Move over, TikTok trends—Gen Z is flipping the script by breathing new life into a 300-year-old art form! 🌟 Meet Wan Yuehan, a 23-year-old Sichuan Opera star reimagining the mythical love story ‘The Legend of the White Snake’ for the digital age. Born in 2000, Wan started her opera journey at just 10 years old, proving you’re never too young to keep traditions alive. 💪
From Childhood Passion to Cultural Revival
Wan isn’t alone. She’s part of a squad of post-2000s performers at Chongqing Sichuan Opera Theater who’ve mastered martial arts-inspired Wudan roles and fiery vocal techniques since their tween years. Their secret sauce? Blending the drama of ancient folklore—think shape-shifting snake spirits and epic love sagas—with Instagram-worthy visuals. 📸
Why Gen Z Can’t Get Enough
Sichuan Opera’s ‘hot and spicy’ vibe (literally how artists describe it! 🌶️) is trending again thanks to short videos showcasing Wan’s gravity-defying stunts and intricate costumes. The tale of Bai Suzhen—a snake spirit turned heroine—hits different for a generation obsessed with complex characters and fantasy worlds. Add face-changing magic (*poof* 🎭), live instrumentals, and emotional storytelling, and you’ve got binge-worthy content that rivals Netflix.
‘Young people today crave stories with soul,’ says Wan, whose performances have racked up millions of views. ‘This isn’t just opera—it’s a bridge between our past and future.’ 🌉
Reference(s):
cgtn.com