Ji Opera
Ji Opera is a new opera genre developed based on Errenzhuan (a song-and-dance duet popular in Northeast China) after the founding of the People's Republic of China. It derives its name from its birthplace, Changchun, the capital of Jilin Province. In 1959, the Jilin Provincial Department of Culture decided to establish the Jilin New Opera Genre Creation Group, with the aim of creating a new opera genre with local characteristics. Drawing on the essence of Northeastern folk music and incorporating modern theatrical techniques, the group created Ji Opera on the foundation of Errenzhuan. Its vocal system is primarily based on the banqiang style while also integrating qupai. Representative works include Lan He Yuan, Tao Li Mei, Baogong Peiqing, Yanqing Maixian, Ban Yao, Jiangjie, and Yuye Songliang. In commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the Ji Opera Troupe of the Jilin Provincial Opera Theatre meticulously created and staged the grand production Ji De Quan. Taking the rise and fall of the time-honored Jilin brand "Ji De Quan" distillery as its narrative lens, the play reflects the patriotism and national spirit of the people of Northeast China, presenting a stirring ode to the black soil region.
