New opera cradles the revolutionary spirit

The team behind the opera adopted a unique approach. Instead of rushing into rehearsals, they first invited feedback on the music from audiences and experts. "The success of any opera lies in its music," Li noted.

The feedback led to changing more than 50 percent of the opera's music after a preview concert in the latter half of 2025, an unprecedented revision rate in the history of Chinese opera.

Li also pointed out that university-led projects benefit from more flexible timelines, which allow for thoughtful, deliberate artistic processes. "Contemporary Chinese music creation is often hindered by rushed timelines. Good art requires patience, repeated revisions, and deep immersion," he added.

Director Chen Wei, a professor in the China Conservatory of Music's department of vocal and opera, explained the opera's focus on artistic authenticity.