Students of the Beijing Opera Academy are keeping traditions alive by practicing and preserving the ancient songs in a "modest and slightly shabby theatre". However, commercialism and modernization of China pose a threat to the support of theatre. Traditional music and dance have also been rejected by many younger Chinese in favor of Western music and modern dancing thanks to the Cultural Revolution. I really encourage these performers to keep up with their tradition, even the most pathetic plays have some value, if only to prevent the tradition from dying out completely. Apparently though, plenty of students show up for various reasons, whether they were encouraged by their parents or decided on their own. As a result, the real threat seems to be industrialization in general, the expansion of malls and the like. I really hope China rediscover's its roots so that beautiful traditions like the operas can be preserved.
Article Referenced:
Bernstein, Richard. "Beijing Opera, a Historical Treasure in Fragile Condition". NYTimes. New York Times. 29 August 2010. Web. 29 August 2010.
No comments:
Post a Comment