The long history of Chinese opera has given risen to numerous regional branches each of which is imprinted with the distinctive local culture of the region. As the name indicates, Hui Opera originated from Huizhou and the surrounding areas of Anqing, Taiping, Qingyang and Shitai in China’s central Anhui Province.
Hui opera is one of the oldest forms of theatre in China, with a history of more than 300 years. It has established a complete artistic format with Chinese opera’s major components – the vocal style, the set tunes and the percussive scores which portray the psychological state of different characters. Particular emphasis is also placed on the highly formalized movements and stage design. The stage art of Hui Opera is rich and varied, with spectacular stage sets. The costumes are simple and of good taste. Hui Opera has experienced highs and lows in its history, but its abundant heritage and distinct national features allowed for its enduring artistic vitality.
Hui Opera was listed in the first batch of national intangible cultural heritage in China in June, 2006. Two years later, the BMW Group, contributed a donation of RMB 1 Million to the Protection Center of Intangible Cultural Heritage of China (PCICH), as part of the “Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritages Protection Fund”. Part of the donation was allocated mainly to the protection and inheritance of Hui Opera.
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