Shao opera (Chinese: 紹劇; pinyin: Shàojù), also known as Shaoxing opera, is a regional form of Chinese opera originating from Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, China. It is not to be confused with Yue opera (越剧), which is also sometimes called Shaoxing opera but is a distinct and younger genre.
History
Shao opera was influenced by the singing style from neighboring Yuyao as well as the percussive music from Yiyang, Jiangxi, which converged in Shaoxing at the end of the Ming dynasty (1368–1644). The combined form was first used by shuochang (story-singing) storytellers who took on different roles with singing and music accompaniment. It was later transferred to music theatre. Before long, Shao opera music became dominated by the clapper (bangzi) style. Shao opera had its heyday in Shanghai in the early 20th century but lost its foothold there to Peking opera and the younger Yue opera soon after.
Characteristics
Shao opera is distinguished by its forceful music, exaggerated singing, and bold movements. It was originally known as "Shaoxing Luantan" and commonly referred to as "Shaoxing Daban." It originated from Qinqiang opera and was officially named "Shao opera" in 1950.
Instruments
Typical instruments used in Shao opera include the banhu (a bowed string instrument), niutuiqin (a two-stringed fiddle), suona (a double-reed horn), gong, bo (cymbals), dizi (bamboo flute), and sheng (a mouth-blown free reed instrument). The performance language is the Shaoxing dialect of Wu Chinese.
Cultural Recognition
On June 7, 2008, Shao opera was approved by the State Council of China for inclusion in the Second Batch of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List. The Shao opera "Monkey King Thrice Beats the Bony Ghost" was made into a film in 1960, and the monkey play subgenre has since become widely popular across China.
