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Multilingual efforts drive Shaoxing Opera's global reach

ezhejiang.gov.cn| Updated: June 15, 2025 L M S

Zhejiang Yuexiu University launched the "Chinese Traditional Culture Workshop" on May 29, with its first session dedicated to promoting Shaoxing Opera in multiple languages.

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The "Chinese Excellent Traditional Culture Research Workshop" commences in Shaoxing, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

With a history of over 300 years, Shaoxing Opera was officially named in 1950 and is now listed as a national intangible cultural heritage. Compared with other opera genres, Shaoxing Opera demands high proficiency from its performers.

It combines martial and lyrical styles — requiring martial precision in lyrical acts and lyrical grace in martial scenes. This requires exceptional skill in movement, gesture, singing, and stage presence, giving it distinct artistic appeal.

The iconic image of the Monkey King, deeply ingrained in Chinese culture, originated from Shaoxing Opera. One of the most enduring portrayals of the Monkey King in Chinese cultural memory was shaped by Shaoxing Opera performances.

Students majoring in German, Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese have created distinctive videos promoting Shaoxing Opera. By creatively blending Shaoxing Opera with elements from their audiences, they infused fresh imagination into efforts to share Chinese culture globally.