Liu Baorui: A Collection of Fine Xiangsheng Performances

Author: Wang Zhangwen
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Features: Liu Baorui devoted his entire life to xiangsheng (Chinese crosstalk) creation and performance, preserving a collection of outstanding monologues, duets, and group performances for us. This is a valuable spiritual legacy. His noble artistic cultivation and high achievements have earned widespread praise from the masses. He participated in numerous important performances and received warm visits and encouragement from national leaders such as Chairman Mao and Premier Zhou. Xiangsheng, a "people's art" originating from the Beijing region, has developed for over a century. Its artistic elements can be traced back to the jesters of the Zhou and Qin dynasties, but the formation of its "telling, mimicking, teasing, and singing" art form was a creation of modern artists. Its performance, which primarily uses "telling" as its expressive function and "punchlines" as its main artistic technique, is a direct way to captivate the audience. Its enduring vitality stems from its deep roots in the lives of the masses, reflecting their living conditions, joys, sorrows, and aspirations. This provides a solid foundation for performances to connect with the audience. When we watch the masterpieces of renowned performers, we can deeply feel this. Precisely because of the close connection between xiangsheng art and the people, xiangsheng artists continuously refine and polish works loved by the audience through direct feedback, making them timeless classics. These works form the foundation for the continuation and preservation of xiangsheng art's aesthetic characteristics. Today, these works not only continue to bring joy to audiences but also nourish the ongoing development of xiangsheng art. Only by valuing the excellent tradition can innovation become richer and more vibrant. In my opinion, for xiangsheng art to achieve new developments and maintain its popularity, the following three aspects of creation are crucial. First, it is essential to inherit and learn from the valuable legacy of xiangsheng art, persisting in performing excellent traditional (preserved pieces). An outstanding performer should be able to perform over a hundred traditional pieces, which should not be considered too high a demand. Second, continue to discover, organize, and adapt traditional pieces that are both excellent and flawed, as the saying goes, "each selection brings newness." Preserve the essence of their performance and give them positive ideological significance. Third, encourage the creation of xiangsheng works that reflect contemporary life. Broaden the themes and explore diverse approaches, avoiding petty talk and slickness. The works of Ma Ji, Jiang Kun, and Yang Zhenhua serve as successful examples. Today's vast social development and rich and varied social life provide an inexhaustible supply of vivid material for xiangsheng art to fully showcase its essence of humor and satire.