Hou ShaoKui: Fifty Years of Kunqu Opera

Author: Hou Shaoquan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: As an important part of the National Kunqu Opera Art Rescue, Protection, and Support Project, the "Series of Biographical Literature on Kunqu Opera Artists" aims to present the artistic careers and summarized experiences of Kunqu opera artists and theorists nurtured in the New China, bringing the art of Kunqu opera and the intangible heritage attached to "people" together in a true and vivid manner. This series collects contributions from performing artists and theorists from seven Kunqu opera troupes across the country. Some have accumulated ten years of refined stage experience, resulting in unique insights, while others have dedicated their lives to distilling profound yet accessible theories in music, performance, and literature. Among them, some continue to dedicate themselves to the art stage and teaching, while others left us prematurely, leaving behind uncollected experiences and academic perspectives. Yet, it is through these written records that we can strongly feel the journey of Kunqu opera—this highest of national opera art—continuing its legacy and reviving its vitality over half a century. The author believes that the future inheritance and development of Kunqu opera can also draw valuable artistic nourishment from these writings. Therefore, the publication of this series is worthy of appreciation by people today.