The signing ceremony for the Yueju Opera College of Zhejiang Conservatory of Music takes place in Shengzhou, Zhejiang province, on May 18. [Photo/Zhejiang Conservatory of Music]

The Zhejiang Conservatory of Music and the People's Government of Shengzhou signed an agreement to establish the Yueju Opera College of Zhejiang Conservatory of Music in Shengzhou, Zhejiang province, on May 18.

Zhejiang is a center of traditional Chinese opera, with Yueju Opera as one of its most well-known local forms. Originating in Shengzhou, Yueju Opera has flourished nationwide and gained global recognition. 

Currently, Yueju Opera faces the dual challenges of preserving tradition and pursuing modern development. Key issues include how to foster talent, encourage artistic creation, advance modernization through academic development, and achieve its creative transformation and innovative development.

Building on the conservatory's existing talent training system, the newly inaugurated Yueju Opera College of Zhejiang Conservatory of Music will integrate vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate education.

Academically, the college will center its curriculum on the development of "Yueju Opera Studies". In addition to traditional programs, the college plans to establish research and specialized programs in multiple Yueju-related disciplines.

Looking ahead, the college will develop an independent academic system for Yueju Opera Studies, providing academic and theoretical support for the art's preservation and evolution. By remaining rooted in tradition while embracing innovation, the college seeks to maintain Yueju Opera's characteristics and authenticity while resonating with modern audiences.