Early Life and Background

Zhu Wenhua (朱文华), a male member of the Han ethnic group, was born in 1950 in Yanghuzhi Village, Kuanzhuang Township, Fumin County (昆明市富民县款庄乡杨胡子村), Kunming, Yunnan Province. After completing his high school education, he returned to his hometown and became part of the “Sent-Down Youth” (知青) movement during the Cultural Revolution, a group of young intellectuals sent to rural areas to support agriculture and learn from peasants.

Observations and Contributions to Huadeng Opera

Zhu Wenhua is known for his keen observations of everyday life, which he uses as the foundation for his theatrical works. His ability to draw inspiration from daily experiences and transform them into dramatic material has made him a prolific playwright. Through careful study and practice, Zhu mastered the music and percussion instruments of Huadeng Opera (花灯戏), a traditional form of Chinese opera that originated in the region of Kunming.

Since he began his theatrical creations in 1969, Zhu Wenhua has written over 90 works, including full-length Huadeng operas and short comedic sketches. His contributions have established him as one of the most productive amateur playwrights in Fumin County (富民县) and Kunming (昆明市), enriching the local cultural scene with his works.

Achievements in Drama and Recognition

Zhu Wenhua’s works have been frequently featured in various cultural and artistic events at the county and municipal levels, including county and city literary gatherings, annual performances, and special occasions like the Chinese New Year. His efforts have been recognized with numerous awards. In 1987, the Kunming City Cultural Center published an article titled “Zhu Wenhua, the Enthusiastic Playwright” to celebrate his contributions to local theater.

Several of his short plays, such as Chasing the Grandfather (撵公公) and Feng Shui Treasure Land (风水宝地), were included in Kunming’s opera album collection. Other works like Miracle Cure (灵丹妙药), Red Flag Flies (风展红旗), The Sunny Hotel (向阳酒店), Avoiding Happy Events (躲喜事), and Zhao Shun Sells Medicine (赵顺卖药) have earned second and third prizes in Kunming’s touring drama performances.

Recent Works

More recently, Zhu Wenhua has continued to contribute to the development of Huadeng Opera with plays such as Marrying a Daughter-in-Law (娶媳妇), Celebrating Birthdays (过生日), and Master and Apprentice’s Love (师徒相亲). These works not only reflect his artistic innovation but also his dedication to keeping the spirit of Huadeng Opera alive in modern times.

Contribution to the Popularization of Huadeng Opera

Zhu Wenhua’s diligent efforts have greatly contributed to the enrichment of the cultural life of local communities. Through his theatrical productions, he has played a significant role in popularizing and preserving Huadeng Opera in the region, ensuring that this traditional form of folk performance continues to thrive.

Membership in Cultural Organizations

In recognition of his dedication to the arts, Zhu Wenhua joined the Kunming Folk Artists Association (昆明市民间文艺家协会) in 1987. The same year, he attended a drama creation seminar hosted by the Cultural Bureau in Yiliang and participated in a revision class organized by the Kunming Cultural Bureau in Chengjiang. In 1988, Zhu Wenhua graduated from the Correspondence Department of the National Drama Creation Training Center.

His contributions to the local drama scene were further solidified when he became a member of the Kunming Drama Association (昆明市戏剧家协会) in 1999, further cementing his influence on the preservation and promotion of regional theatrical arts.

Legacy and Future

Zhu Wenhua’s legacy as an inheritor of Huadeng Opera is built on his continuous dedication to creating meaningful works that reflect the lives and stories of his community. His efforts have not only enriched the cultural fabric of Fumin County (富民县) and Kunming (昆明市) but have also ensured the lasting presence of Huadeng Opera in the modern world. By drawing from the traditions of his ancestors while embracing contemporary themes and techniques, Zhu has ensured that Huadeng Opera remains a dynamic and evolving art form.

As an advocate for the integration of traditional theater with contemporary culture, Zhu Wenhua’s continued contributions will likely inspire future generations of performers and playwrights, ensuring the continued relevance of Huadeng Opera in the years to come.

http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3364.html

Early Life and Background

Guo Lihui (郭利辉), a male member of the Han ethnic group, was born in April 1952 in Wula Village (五腊村), Yiliu Township (矣六乡), Guandu District (官渡区), Kunming, Yunnan Province. His hometown, Wula Village, is known for its long-standing tradition of Dian Opera (滇戏), a local theatrical form that has been passed down through generations. The village’s “Wula Dian Opera Troupe” (五腊滇戏班) has a history of more than 250 years, and it remains a vital cultural hub for the preservation and performance of this traditional art.

Guo’s father, Guo Zhong (郭忠), was a fifth-generation performer in the Wula Dian Opera Troupe, while his daughter, Guo Rui (郭蕊), is part of the seventh generation. Growing up in this environment, Guo Lihui developed a deep love and respect for Dian Opera from an early age. He began learning to sing Dian Opera at the age of six or seven under the guidance of his father.

Training and Early Performances

At the age of 22, Guo Lihui furthered his training by studying Dian Opera with teachers from the Provincial Dian Opera Troupe and the Provincial Art School. His talent quickly became evident when he made his stage debut with a small opera titled Postponed Marriage (推迟婚期), which earned him first place in a local competition.

Through years of practice and performance, Guo Lihui gained substantial experience in both small opera scenes (折子戏) and full-length performances (本子戏), playing primarily roles of young male characters (小生). His deep understanding of stage arts allowed him to broaden his focus to writing and producing plays and skits that depict modern life.

Creative Works and Achievements

Guo Lihui’s creative skills flourished as he began writing and directing his own works. His self-composed and self-directed play Late Life Happiness (晚年乐) won the Grand Prize in the “Family Happiness” competition in Guandu District. His skit Chimney Mishap (烟囱误) received first-class performance awards at a provincial drama and skit performance. His subsequent participation in the national skit competition earned him a third-place award for performance.

In addition, his work Making a Falsehood True (弄假成真) won a first-place award in the district’s literary and artistic competition for both performance and creation. Selling Tofu (卖豆腐), another one of his works, won first place in the Kunming City art competition.

Contribution to Dian Opera and Local Culture

Guo Lihui’s efforts have played a key role in the promotion and preservation of Dian Opera in his community. He developed the “Wula Dragon Dance and Art Troupe” (五腊龙灯艺术团), where he serves as the troupe leader. The troupe is not only known for performing Dian Opera and Huadeng (花灯) performances, but it also includes dragon dancing as part of its repertoire. The troupe consists of 26 members, and its assets, including costumes and props, are worth over 40,000 yuan.

The troupe regularly organizes various cultural performances and actively participates in events organized by the district. Guo’s entire family is involved in the arts—his daughter was accepted into the Provincial Art School to study Dian Opera, and his son performs as the dragon head in the troupe’s dragon dance. The family even participated in the National Dragon Dance Competition in Hainan, where they won an organizational award.

Legacy and Impact

With over 30 years of experience in the performing arts, Guo Lihui has contributed significantly to the legacy and development of both Dian Opera and Huadeng in his community. His efforts have not only helped preserve the traditions of these performing arts but have also ensured that they continue to thrive in modern times. Through his work, Guo Lihui has strengthened the cultural identity of his hometown and promoted the artistic heritage of Yunnan.

His devotion to Dian Opera and local arts continues to inspire future generations of performers. His involvement in both traditional and modern forms of drama has enriched the local cultural landscape and contributed to the ongoing vitality of Yunnan’s performing arts.

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

昭通市大关县吉利镇端公戏传承人 – 曹相和

http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3375.html

Zhao Zuxu – Inheritor of Duangong Opera in Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong 

昭通市镇雄县塘房乡端公戏传承人 – 赵祖旭

http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3376.html

For Chinese version please go to:
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3338.html

For Chinese version please go to:
http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3341.html

Luo Mingxiang – Potetry Maker in Linxiang District, Lincang 

临沧市临翔区凤翔镇制陶艺人 – 罗明香

http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3290.html

Zhang Yuanwen – Printmaker in Longyang District, Baoshan 

保山市隆阳区板桥镇版画雕刻艺人 – 张元文

http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3275.html

Ding Guocong – Bamboo Ware Craftsman in Yiliang County, Zhaotong 

昭通市彝良县柳溪乡竹器艺人 – 国定聪

http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3277.html

Zhang Xinfeng – Inheritor of Copper Wares-making Skill in Yongsheng County, Lijiang

丽江市永胜县金官镇铜器制作技艺传承人 – 张心凤

http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3280.html

Innovation and Legacy

Passing on the Craft

http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3281.html

Early Life and Education

Gao Zhiyong (高志永), a male member of the Han ethnic group, was born in October 1973 in Huihui Village (回辉村), Kuangyuan Town (匡远镇), Yiliang County (宜良县), Kunming, Yunnan Province. His early exposure to art began in 1989 when he enrolled in Yunnan Arts University to study fine arts, laying a solid foundation for his future work in wood carving.

In 1995, Gao furthered his artistic studies by attending the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, where he specialized in sculpture. During this time, he frequently visited Shitouzhai (石头寨) in Guizhou to learn the traditional craft of making Nuo opera masks, which would later influence his work in carving.

Establishing His Artistic Career

After completing his studies in 1996, Gao returned to his hometown in Yiliang and founded the Hong Gaoyuan Art Company (红高原艺术公司). That same year, he completed a monumental 41-meter-long mural depicting the 26 ethnic groups of Yunnan for the famous Tan Hua Temple (昙华寺) in Kunming.

In 1998, Gao’s large-scale wood carving works, such as Dragon and Phoenix Presenting Auspiciousness Vase (龙凤呈祥瓶) and Nine Dragons Screen (九龙屏), were collected by relevant authorities. These pieces, along with later works, gained international recognition, contributing to Gao’s growing reputation. His achievements have been covered by local media outlets such as Yunnan Daily (云南日报), Spring City Evening News (春城晚报), and Yiliang County Television.

Artistic Achievements

Gao Zhiyong has created a large number of traditional sculptures, including representations of Buddha, dragons, and phoenixes, as well as monumental works like Zheng He’s Voyages to the Western Seas (郑和下西洋). His works have received widespread praise for their detailed craftsmanship and artistic expression. His deep knowledge of various art forms and his ability to integrate traditional Chinese artistic techniques have allowed his creations to reflect the rich heritage of the Chinese people. His works are highly valued for their unique style and artistic quality.

Gao is a folk artist rooted in grassroots culture, combining an extensive understanding of different art forms with a deep connection to traditional craftsmanship. His wood carving works are welcomed and appreciated by society, gaining recognition both domestically and internationally.

Legacy and Impact

Gao Zhiyong’s impact extends beyond his impressive body of work; he has also helped to promote and preserve the traditional art of wood carving. His contributions to the local culture and the broader art world continue to resonate today, making him a key figure in the modern artistic community of Yiliang County and Kunming.

Through his skill and dedication, Gao has contributed to the evolution of Chinese wood carving, blending traditional methods with contemporary artistic vision, ensuring the continued relevance and appreciation of this ancient craft.

Chinese Version

Yunnan Travel Guide

Things To Do

• Yunnan Overview
• Yunnan Attractions
• Yunnan Tours
• Yunnan Shopping
• Yunnan Culture
• Festivals and Activities

Travel Information

• Yunnan Travel Tips
• Yunnan Climate
• Yunnan Transportation
• Yunnan Maps
• Yunnan Photos
• Yunnan Dining
• Yunnan Accommodation
• Yunnan Education
• Yunnan Travel News
• Administrative Divisions

Create My Trip

You Might Like

• 1 Day Yingjiang Hornbill Valley Birding Tour
• 1 Day Lijiang Ancient Town Lakefront International Golf Tour
• 2 Days Lincang Tea Culture Tour with Ancient Tea Road Hiking
• 2 Days Shangri La Balagezong Grand Canyon Tour
• 5 Days Lijiang Golf Tour with Lijiang Ancient Lakefront Golf Course and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club
• 7 Days Lijiang Education Tour for International School Students
• 10 Days Shangri-La Hiking Tour with Tiger Leaping Gorge and Niru Alpine Pasture
• 5 Days XishuangBanna and Puer Ethnic Market Discovery Tour

Han Chinese

Zhu Wenhua – Inheritor of Huadeng Opera in Fumin County, Kunming 

Early Life and Background Zhu Wenhua (朱文华), a male member of the Han ethnic group, was born in 1950 in Yanghuzhi Village, Kuanzhuang Township, Fumin County (昆明市富民县款庄乡杨胡子村), Kunming, Yunnan...

Culture    Veiw

• Fumin County
• Han Chinese
• Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Kunming
• Kunming

Guo Lihui – Inheritor of Dian Opera in Guandu District, Kunming 

Early Life and Background Guo Lihui (郭利辉), a male member of the Han ethnic group, was born in April 1952 in Wula Village (五腊村), Yiliu Township (矣六乡), Guandu District...

Culture    Veiw

• Guandu District
• Han Chinese
• Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Kunming
• Kunming

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

Cao Xianghe – Inheritor of Duangong Opera in Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong  昭通市大关县吉利镇端公戏传承人 – 曹相和 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3375.html...

Culture    Veiw

• Daguan County
• Han Chinese
• Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Zhaotong
• Zhaotong

Zhao Zuxu – Inheritor of Duangong Opera in Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong

Zhao Zuxu – Inheritor of Duangong Opera in Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong  昭通市镇雄县塘房乡端公戏传承人 – 赵祖旭 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3376.html...

Culture    Veiw

• Han Chinese
• Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Zhaotong
• Zhaotong
• Zhenxiong County

Li Guixing – Inheritor of Dragon Dance in Yimen County, Yuxi 

Personal Background Li Guixing (李贵兴), male, of Han ethnicity, was born in 1945. He is a native of Xingwen Street Community (兴文街社区), Longquan Town (龙泉镇), Yimen County (易门县), Yuxi...

Culture    Veiw

• Han Chinese
• Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Yuxi
• Yimen County
• Yuxi

Shen Ruchang  – Inheritor of High-footed Lion Dance in Tonghai County, Yuxi 

Shen Ruchang’s Background Shen Ruchang, a male of Han (汉族) ethnicity, was born in 1948 in Shibangou Village, Daying Village, Sijie Township, Tonghai County, Yuxi City. He is the...

Culture    Veiw

• Han Chinese
• Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Yuxi
• Tonghai County
• Yuxi

Luo Mingxiang – Potetry Maker in Linxiang District, Lincang

Luo Mingxiang – Potetry Maker in Linxiang District, Lincang  临沧市临翔区凤翔镇制陶艺人 – 罗明香 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3290.html...

Culture    Veiw

• Han Chinese
• Lincang
• Linxiang District

Zhang Yuanwen – Printmaker in Longyang District, Baoshan 

Zhang Yuanwen – Printmaker in Longyang District, Baoshan  保山市隆阳区板桥镇版画雕刻艺人 – 张元文 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3275.html...

Culture    Veiw

• Baoshan
• Han Chinese
• Longyang District

Ding Guocong – Bamboo Ware Craftsman in Yiliang County, Zhaotong 

Ding Guocong – Bamboo Ware Craftsman in Yiliang County, Zhaotong  昭通市彝良县柳溪乡竹器艺人 – 国定聪 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3277.html...

Culture    Veiw

• Han Chinese
• Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Zhaotong
• Yiliang County (Zhaotong)
• Zhaotong

Zhang Xinfeng – Inheritor of Copper Wares-making Skill in Yongsheng County, Lijiang

Zhang Xinfeng – Inheritor of Copper Wares-making Skill in Yongsheng County, Lijiang 丽江市永胜县金官镇铜器制作技艺传承人 – 张心凤 http://www.ynich.cn/view-ml-13111-3280.html...

Culture    Veiw

• Han Chinese
• Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Lijiang
• Lijiang
• Yongsheng County

Tan Zhiping – Inheritor of Enamelled Silverware-making Craft in Yongsheng County, Lijiang

Tan Zhiping is from Jin Guan Village, San Chuan Town, Yong Sheng County, Lijiang City, Yunnan Province (丽江市永胜县三川镇金官村). As the fourth-generation inheritor of the “Tan Family Silversmith” (谭记银匠) and...

Culture    Veiw

• Han Chinese
• Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Lijiang
• Lijiang
• Yongsheng County

Gao Zhiyong – Wood Carving Craftman in Yiliang County, Kunming 

Early Life and Education Gao Zhiyong (高志永), a male member of the Han ethnic group, was born in October 1973 in Huihui Village (回辉村), Kuangyuan Town (匡远镇), Yiliang County...

Culture    Veiw

• Han Chinese
• Inheritors of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Kunming
• Kunming
• Yiliang County (Kunming)