Peking Opera 2.0

Samuel P. Huntington’s book, The Clash of Civilizations posited that the post-Cold war political map would be distinguished by a conflict between cultures. In other words, different strokes for different folks equals bad news . However true some would argue that his theory came to fruition when it comes to what he defines as Western and Islamic cultures, Western and Sino cultures, on the other hand, seem to have taken a strange turn. A very strange turn, indeed, as the unholiest of all amalgamations has taken theater by storm.

Taking the fusion craze from the dinner plate to the stage is one Wu Rujun. He has gone where no man has gone before, and has combined Peking Opera with, hold your breath, “modern ballet, folk dance, Western opera and Kabuki.” This is a clash of civilizations of the pretty kind. The New Peking Opera, as its founder calls it, updates the traditional Chinese art form and makes it more accessible to a generation hungry for something a little different. While this may seem like sacrilege to purists, some fans have embraced the new Coke of opera. Zhou Youcheng, a Peking Opera expert and critic, said “what the audience needs is a developing and vibrant art form that suits today’s market.” Moreover, according to Xinhua, “the production, which debuted in Beijing in August, attracted some controversy for its dilution of the traditional art form, but it was very popular with audiences.” For its next run, the New Peking Opera moves to Shanghai where The Love of the Cowherd and Weaver Girl hits Yifu Theater on December 7 and 8. Better get your earplugs if you happen to be in the vicinity, new opera or not, Peking shows always manage to hit one heck of a high note.

Image: Brooklyn Botanic Garden (yes, I’m surprised too)