Cantonese opera was added to the UNESCO Representative List of
the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009.
Rooted in the Cantonese-speaking regions of Guangdong in southern China,
it combines traditional Chinese opera and the Cantonese dialect, featuring
string and percussion instruments, elaborate costumes, face painting, and martial arts.
At the heart of Cantonese opera lies its enchanting music,
sung in the melodious Cantonese dialect, accompanied by traditional Chinese instruments.
The embroidered costumes of Cantonese opera reflect the characters’ roles,
personalities, and social status.
Each type of costumes is matched with particular headgear, footwear and facial make-up.
Cantonese opera also has a unique style of make-up and face painting.
In the past, heavy costumes were used on performers to counter the poor stage lighting
and distance from the audience.
Cantonese opera is not just a feast for the eyes and ears;
It’s a way of telling stories, teaching morals and values, and keeping our culture alive.
It has developed a wide repertoire of stories ranging from historical epics
to realistic depiction of daily life,incorporating themes of love,
loyalty and justice into engaging performances.
Cantonese opera bridges the past and the present,
showcasing the beauty of traditions and culture.