Traditional opera popular in central China's Hebei Province

Performers of local troupe play "Shibuxian", a traditional opera can be traced back to Qing Dynasty, for villagers at Sancheng village, Zhuozhou city, central China's Hebei Province, May 8, 2009.

"Shibuxian", originated in Zhuozhou in Qing Dynatsy, got its name as it opera needs the performer to play several music instruments by using hands and feet consistently during his performance. Combined with "Lianhualuo", a form of performance, "Shibuxian" puts emphasis upon impromptu comic gestures and remarks its libretto is of great local color. "Shibuxian" had been played in Zhuozhou until the 1960's and since then has been on the wane. Local government of Zhuozhou started to find the old performers of "Shibuxian" and rescue the information of the opera as "Shibuxian" has been listed in the intangible cultural heritage of Hebei Province currently. As "Shibuxian" troupes are sent out to perform for villagers around the city, the folk art is not only reborned but also enriched the daily life of local people. (Xinhua/Gong Zhihong)



Performers of local troupe play "Shibuxian".



Performers of local troupe play "Shibuxian".



Performers of local troupe play "Shibuxian".



Performers of local troupe play "Shibuxian".



Performers of local troupe play "Shibuxian".