Cao Xianghe - Inheritor of Duangong Opera in Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong 

? Background and Value of Daguan Dangu Opera (大关端公戏)

Daguan Dangu Opera (大关端公戏), also known as Nuo Opera (傩戏), is an ancient theatrical tradition that blends folk rituals with dramatic performance.

It was first introduced to Yutian Village (鱼田村), Jili Town (吉利镇), Daguan County (大关县) in 1667 (the 6th year of Emperor Kangxi’s reign, 清康熙六年). Taoist priest Cao Wenguang (曹文广) brought the art back from Sichuan (四川), established a ritual altar, and began teaching it locally. Since then, it has been passed down for more than 350 years.

In 2021, Daguan Dangu Opera was officially inscribed on the Fifth National List of Representative Intangible Cultural Heritage of China, confirming its importance at the national level.

? Key Features at a Glance

? How to Learn More about Cao Xianghe (曹相和)

As public information is limited, here are some practical ways to find out more about Cao Xianghe (曹相和), one of the inheritors of Daguan Dangu Opera:

• Contact Local Cultural Authorities: The Daguan County Bureau of Culture and Tourism (大关县文化和旅游局) manages intangible cultural heritage in the region and may hold detailed archives or contact information.

• Engage with Local Communities: Reaching out to the town government of Jili Town (吉利镇) or the village committee of Yutian Village (鱼田村) could provide direct insights, as local residents often know more about tradition bearers.

? Conclusion

Although direct information about Cao Xianghe (曹相和) is limited, the art he inherits—Daguan Dangu Opera (大关端公戏)—is a historically rich and nationally recognized cultural treasure.

Its unique blend of ritual, drama, wooden masks, and traditional vocal styles makes it not only a performance art but also a living testimony to China’s intangible cultural heritage.

For culture enthusiasts and travelers, discovering Dangu Opera offers a rare glimpse into centuries-old traditions that still echo in the mountains of Yunnan (云南).