Chen Lili (middle) wins the 32nd China Theatre Plum Blossom Award. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Chen Lili, an actress born in Jinyun county, Lishui, Zhejiang province, claimed the 32nd China Theatre Plum Blossom Award at a ceremony in Shanghai on May 21, marking a milestone in her years of dedication to Wuju Opera.

Born in 1986 into a family of Wuju Opera performers, including her grandparents and mother, Chen was immersed in this traditional art from childhood. By age three, she began appearing in child roles.

At 12, she enrolled in a vocational school's opera program, enduring rigorous training — acrobatics, vocal drills, and reciting lines — that honed her into a standout performer.

Joining Zhejiang Wuju Opera Art Research Institute (Zhejiang Wuju Opera Troupe) in 2013, Chen has since starred in nearly 10 productions, delivering over 100 performances annually worldwide, from rural stages to cultural exchanges in around 30 countries and regions.

Chen presented her virtuosity during a performance on May 10 at Shanghai's Yifu Theater to compete for the Plum Blossom Award. She performed three opera highlights, showing three distinct vocal styles of Wuju Opera and her mastery of stage arts.

Chen performs Wuju Opera highlights at Shanghai's Yifu Theater. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In one of the opera highlights, Chen transformed into the renowned legendary heroine Mu Guiying, masterfully blending the martial prowess of a daomadan (warrior female role) with the vivacity of a huadan (vivacious female role).

During daily rehearsals, Chen polishes every gesture and note, believing that stage perfection stems from countless hours of practice. This discipline reflects Wuju Opera's enduring spirit.

Chen polishes her skills in her daily life. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Receiving the award, Chen credited her team, "This honor belongs not to me alone but to every mentor and colleague who lifted me onto this stage." From rural theaters to national acclaim, Chen's journey embodies the soul of traditional Chinese opera.