Performance by Zhao Yutao

Peking University, May 25, 2023: As part of a series of events to celebrate Peking University’s “Global Engagement Year” and promote PKUers’ aesthetic experience, an art class titled "Art Classroom: Chinese Kunqu Opera amidst the Breeze" took place on May 20, 2023, at the PKU Hall. 

Featuring esteemed Kunqu Opera actor, Zhao Yutao, a national first-class actor from the renowned Jiangsu Performing Arts Group Kunqu Opera Troupe, and the talented young actress, He Xinyue, the masterclass aimed to introduce both Chinese and international students to the captivating world of Kunqu Opera.

Chinese Kunqu Opera is listed by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an intangible cultural heritage. With its century-long history, Kunqu Opera holds a significant place within Chinese traditional culture. 

During the session, Zhao took the stage to enlighten students about the history of Kunqu Opera, the intricate categorization of roles, and the profound significance of costumes and facial makeup. Through interactive performances, Zhao showcased the distinctive elements inherent in Kunqu Opera. Attendees also had the rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the art by experiencing the application of "Huadan" facial makeup, gaining valuable insights into the meticulous design that seamlessly integrates facial makeup with character roles and the actor's own image. 

Students trying on the makeup

He Xinyue then introduced the fundamental aspects of Kunqu Opera. She skillfully employed an aria from the renowned opera "The Peony Pavilion," allowing students to understand the distinctiveness of the "Guimen Dan (young, married girl)" and "Xiaoliu Dan (young and playful female)" roles. 

Throughout the lecture, both speakers enthusiastically responded to the students' queries, encouraging them to continue supporting the preservation and development of Kunqu Opera, while also nurturing the growth of the emerging generation of Kunqu actors and actresses.
 

Performance by He Xinyue

Irina Cheheb, an exchange student at the Department of Chinese Language and Literature, highlighted that the event was fruitful as the invited guests were extremely professional. Their vivid performance and explanation enabled her to easily grasp the stories they were performing. Similarly, Ronja Ohrnberg, another exchange student from the same department, reflected that the event has piqued her interest in the makeup of Kunqu Opera and motivated her to research more on different forms of Chinese Opera, including Peking Opera.
 

Students asking questions about Kunqu Opera during the event

Students at the masterclass

 

In line with providing our students with a holistic education, the PKU Hall has actively collaborated with various art troupes and performing arts to host a diverse range of events, including a spectacular stage show of the Chinese Kunqu masterpiece "The Peony Pavilion," which was held on May 19-20. 

Kunqu Opera performance held at the PKU Hall

The Peony Pavillion being performed at the PKU Hall

These events are aimed at acquainting young audiences, especially international students, with the rich cultural heritage of traditional Chinese heritage and fostering cultural exchanges and mutual understanding among PKUers. 

Written by: Ang Shao Heng
Edited by: Su Huangyi
Source: PKU News (Chinese)