9th Paris Chinese Opera Festival opens with 'The Orphan of Zhao'

Ambassador Lu Shaye highlighted the significance of cultural exchange between China and France, emphasizing the role of cultural events such as the Chinese Opera Festival in bringing the two nations closer together. The festival has become a must-attend event for Chinese opera enthusiasts and has received positive feedback, contributing to the cultural ties between the two countries.

The opening performance of the 9th Paris Chinese Opera Festival featured students and teachers from the Chinese Opera Academy's Peking Opera and Kunqu Opera departments presenting the classic Peking Opera "The Orphan of Zhao." This play, originally a renowned Yuan Dynasty drama, has been adapted into various Chinese opera genres and was even adapted by the French writer and philosopher Voltaire as "The Orphan of China," which gained popularity in Europe.

As the first Chinese play translated into European languages, "The Orphan of Zhao" resonated deeply with the audience at the Guimet Museum, sparking contemplation on themes of humanity, loyalty, and sacrifice. The ancient and profound Eastern essence filled the theater, transcending cultural boundaries to create a profound spiritual connection between East and West.

The 9th Paris Chinese Opera Festival, running from November 6 to 10 in 2024, is themed around "Performance, Screening, Exhibition," showcasing the artistic charm of Chinese opera through various exhibitions, film screenings, cultural lectures, and artistic salons. This festival aims to deepen cultural exchanges between China and France, allowing French audiences to better understand the beauty of traditional Chinese opera and ensuring that the splendor of opera continues to bloom in Paris.