Inheritance in peril

Since the late Qing Dynasty, Zhou Qin argues that no truly great Kunqu Opera librettos have been written, at least none that can stand alongside the classics of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing dynasties.

The causes are multiple. Zhou Qin notes that many universities no longer teach the composition of classical poetry.

He hopes events like the Haitang Yaji can rekindle the public's passion for Kunqu Opera.

Wu Jie, a senior official in Bacheng, says the town has pursued an integrated approach to inheritance, protection, and the promotion of the traditional art.

A local opera museum has collected documentation on traditional Chinese opera genres and hosted annual opera gatherings for Kunqu Opera enthusiasts across the country, according to Wu. Many children have joined a youth Kunqu Opera troupe and received professional training.

Bacheng is now planning a major cultural district built around the opera theme.

The goal, Wu says, is to re-create the spirit of the Jade Mountain gathering for a new era and make the elegance of Kunqu Opera a living aesthetic that ordinary people can appreciate.

Lin Feng, executive vice-president of the Chinese Poetry Society, observes that the Haitang Yaji has flourished in recent years.

"It has transcended the simple meaning of a cultural activity and become a true cultural calling card for China's poetry world," he says.

He believes the event will help promote the union of poetry and Kunqu Opera, which will "honor the heritage while serving the people of today".