Chongqing - At this critical juncture in the inheritance and advancement of cultural arts, Zhou Li, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the deputy director of the Jingju Theatre Company of Chongqing, is harnessing her extensive background in education and culture to weave Peking Opera into the fabric of youth education.
Zhou Li is a member of the National Committee of the CPPCC and the deputy director of the Chongqing Municipal Peking Opera Troupe. (Photo/Jingju Theatre Company of Chongqing)
At the rehearsal hall of the Jingju Theatre Company of Chongqing, Zhou and her team are immersed in the meticulous rehearsal of the traditional Peking Opera masterpiece Dragon and Phoenix Bring Prosperity. This endeavor not only exhibits the enchanting allure and profound essence of Peking Opera but also underscores the necessity of continual refinement to afford audiences a deeper appreciation of its unique charm.
As a member of the CPPCC National Committee, Zhou is deeply committed to enhancing the visibility and appreciation of Peking Opera, tirelessly seeking innovative strategies to elevate this cornerstone of cultural heritage.
Zhou Li teaches children Peking Opera performances. (Photo/Jingju Theatre Company of Chongqing)
The previous year marked a significant milestone with the joint presentation of the Impression Peking Opera, Xue Tao, by the Jingju Theatre Company of Chongqing and the Chengdu Peking Opera Company. This collaboration breathed new life into traditional performances through a creative fusion of costume, music, and stagecraft, dismantling preconceived notions of Peking Opera and captivating a younger demographic with its artistry.
Zhou advocates for a dual approach to preserving and popularizing operatic art, combining traditional methods with proactive engagement to cultivate an appreciation and understanding of Peking Opera among the public, particularly the younger generation. Leading by example, she has spearheaded a variety of operatic initiatives in educational settings, showcasing a repertoire of classic Peking Opera excerpts, full-scale productions, and children’s plays, thereby facilitating an immersive experience that reveals the splendor of Peking Opera.
The Chongqing Municipal Peking Opera Troupe’s first lesson for students at the Clessence Bookstore. (Photo/Jingju Theatre Company of Chongqing)
Confronted with the challenge of a scarcity of qualified educators in opera education, Zhou submitted a proposal for implementing a systematic project in opera aesthetic education during the 2023 “two sessions.” This proposal advocates for the creation of opera education majors within colleges and universities and calls for the assembly of professionals to develop standardized opera educational resources. Zhou emphasizes that the essence of opera aesthetic education resides in sowing the seeds of opera within the hearts of students, employing a holistic and systematic approach to teaching that spans pedagogy, psychology, and beyond, thus empowering young individuals to grasp the core of Peking Opera and elevate their cultural and spiritual awareness.
Zhou Li teaches children Peking Opera performances. (Photo/Jingju Theatre Company of Chongqing)
Zhou’s dedication transcends the brilliance of stage performances, reflecting her deep engagement with Peking Opera education and cultural preservation. She is firmly committed to advancing opera-focused educational programs, securing the enduring legacy and continued evolution of Peking Opera for generations to come.
Zhou remains steadfast in her focus on operatic culture, pledging to tirelessly serve and contribute to the enrichment and popularization of Peking Opera and the broader spectrum of operatic arts.