Opera for the modern world

Natasha Tai

For centuries, traditional Chinese opera, or xiqu, was the main form of entertainment for many. Now, although the heritage art form feels old fashioned, it is still present in today's art scene.

Combining innovative technical and production elements with tradition, West Kowloon Cultural District's Xiqu Centre is presenting the art for the modern audience with Black Box Chinese Opera Festival.

This year the festival will be performing two award-winning Experimental Cantonese Opera productions: Farewell My Concubine (New Adaptation) and Wenguang Explores the Valley.

"We are looking forward to showcasing the breadth of diversity of the productions, and through greater exposure and wider audiences we hope to invigorate the industry," said Naomi Chung, West Kowloon Cultural District head of performing arts (xiqu).

The two productions highlight the theme of inheritance - a problem faced by the Chinese opera industry. The creative team aims to revitalize the cultural art form with their unconventional take.

Chung said: "We use technology such as LED, visuals and special theatrical techniques in Wenguang Explores the Valley. The technology integrates perfectly with the performance itself."

Playwrights and directors Keith Lai and Janet Wong made a point of incorporating contemporary elements into the more traditional aspects of the operas.

"I love gongs and drums, as well as different types of paichang (formulaic) styles," said Lai.

"The first session of Farewell My Concubine has four types of paichang styles while Wenguang has two. These represent the characteristics of Southern Chinese opera. We experiment and innovate in terms of content, music and theatrical arrangements."

Wong said each team member worked to his or her strengths.

"For example, Ng Lap-hei may incorporate fencing, and Keith Lai may rewrite the script. I may write a new musical score while the team may explore switching between Southern (nanxi) and Northern (beixi) drama," she said. "We all don't know how it will go, but that's the experimental spirit within the production."

In addition to stage performances, the festival also provides talks, interactive workshops and creative sharing sessions.

The Mini Dough Warrior workshop (HK$250), featuring guest speaker Moses Law, will be held on November 13. Free online creative sharing are also available at 3pm on November 6 and 13.

Each session features different topics shared by groups such as the Shanghai Opera Group and the Contemporary Legend Theatre.

Visit www.westkowloon.hk/bbcof2021 for more details.