Ten years ago, a newly adapted Cantonese Opera “Fighting for the Great Tang Empire,” which transformed the most spectacular plot from the Chinese 3D game “JX3” onto the traditional opera stage, emerged out of nowhere, sparking interest in Cantonese Opera among countless young audiences who previously knew nothing about it. It was not just the beginning of an audiovisual feast, but a new chapter of traditional and modern Cantonese Opera intertwined. In their narrative, Cantonese Opera—an art form carrying the essence of Lingnan culture—is more than just the inheritance of singing styles and movements; it is a vivid practice of continuous breakthrough and courageous innovation. Each new staging, each fresh vocal tone is a profound tribute and modern interpretation of this ancient art form.
Cantonese Opera also holds a crucial position in the hearts of overseas Chinese communities. Every note, every line of dialogue can instantly evoke deep nostalgia for their homeland, becoming a bridge that connects and conveys hometown sentiments. This time, CGTN invited Peng Qinghua, the main creator of “Fighting for the Great Tang Empire,” along with two performers from the Shenzhen Cantonese Opera Troupe he leads, to share their stories about Cantonese Opera.
Narrator: Yang Yan
Reporter: Xu Chenlu
Text by Xu Chenlu
Videographers: Huang Yi
Video editor: Xu Chenlu
Cover image designed by Du Chenxin
Special courtesy to Amazing Seasun Game and Shenzhen Cantonese Opera Troupe.