City: Suzhou
Known as the ancestor of Chinese operas, Kunqu Opera originated in Jiangsu province more than 600 years ago and deeply influenced many later Chinese opera styles. It features soft, melodious singing, graceful body movements and gorgeous costumes and facial makeup. The stories are adapted from ancient Chinese poems and dramas, full of Jiangnan romantic aesthetics and philosophical thoughts.
In this activity, professional Kunqu performers will introduce the history and artistic features of Kunqu. You can choose authentic opera costumes and headpieces to wear, and professional makeup artists will help you with traditional opera facial makeup. Then performers will teach you simple basic postures and hand movements. At the end of the session, you will enjoy a short live performance of classic Kunqu arias.
For adult leisure travellers, this immersive opera experience offers a unique glimpse into traditional Chinese performing arts. For overseas student groups, students can research how Kunqu reflects ancient Chinese literature, social values and gender roles in traditional society. They can compare Kunqu with Western opera and theatre.
PandaStudyTour cooperates with local Kunqu troupes, provides professional costumes and bilingual explanation. This activity can be paired with Pingtan listening experience in Pingjiang Road for a complete Jiangnan traditional opera study module.
