Peking Opera is almost synonymous with Chinese culture, but the ancient art form has been put to the test by the encroachment of modernity.
Peking Opera first emerged in the late 18th century and came to full flower in the mid-19th century. But it didn't reach its peak until the first half of the 20th century. It’s been widely performed around the world, most notably in Japan, Europe and the US.
But in the second half of the 20th century it witnessed a steady decline in popularity, mainly due to a drop in performance quality, and a disconnect between modern life and the conventions of the performance.
Performers and artists have been doing everything they can to keep Peking Opera alive, launching various initiatives over the years. But one particular innovation has been a real stand-out ---new Peking Opera.
CCTV reporter Stanley Lee, Beijing, said, "Many believe that the new Peking Opera movement has injected new life into the ancient art form, but its inclusion of modern elements have also raised eyebrows and criticism. I'm here with Chu Lanlan, one of the leading figures of new Peking Opera. Miss Chu, what's your response to the critics?"
Chu Lanlan, Performing Artist, said, "I was brought up and trained by the most rigorous and traditional teachers, so all of my innovation are rooted in tradition. One example of my innovation is this (She sings), and you see I sped up the pace. Peking Opera must keep up with the pace and rhythm of modern life. People used to sit all afternoon just to enjoy the gestures and acrobatics back then, but that’s in the past."
But her critics are pointing to the past and expressing worries that Peking Opera may drift into obscurity if it seizes on every fashionable idea that comes along. Chu Lanlan disagrees, saying that, at its peak, Peking Opera was in fact one of the most colorful and trendy art forms of its time. So keeping up with the times isn't something to be avoided. But that doesn't mean throwing out all the old traditions.
Chu Lanlan also said, "Peking Opera tells a story rich in symbolism, unlike modern drama it is very abstract. For example,(She sings), this symbolizes that the character is weeping, so when we innovate we mustn't collapse into realism. If we bring a real horse on stage, the usual set gestures a character mounting on a horse would be useless. I am not shy about introducing modern technology on stage, but the abstract core of Peking Opera must be intact."
New Peking Opera usually looks nothing like its older cousin, and the initiative has received a mixed and uncertain response. But one thing is for certain, efforts to innovate and bring freshness to the ancient art form will continue.