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On stage, Wu Fenghua transcends boundaries. Whether portraying a dashing scholar or a brave general in Yue Opera, she captivates audiences with her compelling performances. In a genre where women play male roles, Wu’s ability to embody masculine characters sets her apart.
“Once I step onto the stage, I feel an incredible surge of excitement,” Wu shared. “If the performance is going well, I truly relish every moment of those two and a half hours in the spotlight.”
Born in 1970, Wu has dedicated over 40 years to Yue Opera. As a two-time recipient of the Plum Performance Award—China’s top honor for theater and opera—she believes an actor’s growth is inseparable from the stage. “You have to be passionate about it. Only then can you fully commit to your role and deliver a great performance,” she said.
Wu serves as the artistic director of the Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Troupe of Shaoxing, based in Keqiao District of Shaoxing City in east China’s Zhejiang Province. Founded in 1986, the troupe is renowned for blending the graceful elegance of civil plays with the dynamic energy of martial plays.
Undeterred by weather, the troupe travels annually to rural areas, bringing the beauty of Yue Opera to local audiences. By the end of 2023, they had staged over 3,000 shows in the countryside, sharing their art with millions of villagers across the region.
A Tradition of Female Excellence
Yue Opera, originating from Shaoxing City (historically known as “Yue”), has a history spanning nearly 120 years. Unique among Chinese operas, it features women performing male roles. According to Wu, embodying a young male character requires a delicate balance of strength and grace.
“Our predecessors laid the foundation for Yue Opera’s success,” Wu reflected. “Now, with young students eager to learn and an environment that encourages innovation, the future looks promising.”
In an effort to attract younger audiences, Wu’s team adapted Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” staging it as “General Ma Long” in 2001. Last year, they revised the production, aiming to captivate new viewers by infusing world classics with the unique charm of Yue Opera.
Mentoring the Next Generation
Wu fondly recalls meeting her mentor, Fan Ruijuan, in 1987. Fan, famous for her role as Liang Shanbo in China’s first color Yue Opera film “Butterfly Lovers,” became a significant influence on Wu’s career. Today, Wu passes on her knowledge to young performers like Zhou Yi.
Zhou, who began learning Yue Opera at 13, sees Wu as both kind-hearted and demanding. “I aspire to perform alongside her one day,” Zhou said with a smile.
While innovation presents challenges, especially in appealing to both traditional enthusiasts and younger audiences, performers like Wu and Zhou are optimistic. “We have to take it step by step,” Zhou explained. “Original works are gaining recognition, and platforms like online live performances help us reach more people.”
Yet, Wu hopes that more people will experience Yue Opera in theaters. “Watching a play in the theater and watching it on a screen are two completely different experiences,” she emphasized.
Looking ahead, Wu’s team is set to perform internationally, with plans to stage “Butterfly Lovers” in Europe. “We will prepare bilingual subtitles,” Wu revealed, eager to share the timeless beauty of Yue Opera with the world.
