Distinguishing features of Cantonese opera
Cantonese opera has much in common with other Chinese opera genres.
It has its distinct features, however.
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Most plots in Cantonese opera are based
on Chinese history. |
Commentators often take pride in the idea that all Chinese theatre
styles are but minor variations on a pan-Chinese music-theatre
tradition, and that the basic features or principles are consistent from
one local performance form to another.
Most of the plots in Cantonese opera are based on Chinese history and
famous Chinese classics and myths. The culture and philosophies of the
Chinese people can be seen in the plays. Virtues like loyalty, moral,
love, patriotism and faithfulness are often reflected by the operas.
Skills and methods
The four skills and the five methods a simple codification of the
basic skills and techniques of acting and singing used in Cantonese
opera: The "four skills" and "five methods" are a simple codification of
the areas of special training for theatre performers, and also stand as
something of a metaphor for the most well-rounded and thoroughly trained
performers.
The "four skills" apply to the whole spectrum of vocal and dramatic
training: singing, acting and movement, delivery of the "speech-types"
and martial and "gymnastic skills," while the five methods are
categories of techniques associated with specific body parts: hands,
eyes, body, hair, feet or walking techniques.
Types of Cantonese opera
There are two types of Cantonese opera plays: Wu ("martial arts") and
Wen ("highly educated", especially in poetry and culture) plays.
Wu plays emphasize war, the characters usually being generals or
warriors. These works contain action scenes and involve a lot of
weaponry and armour. Wen plays tend to be gentler and more elegant.
Scholars are the main characters in these plays. Water sleeves are used
extensively in man plays to produce movements reflecting the elegance
and tenderness of the characters; all female characters wear them.
In man plays, characters put a lot of effort into creating
distinctive facial expressions and gestures to express their underlying
emotions.
Global Times |
