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

? The Lineage and Artistic Features of Zhao Zuxu (赵祖旭)

Zhao Zuxu (赵祖旭), a native of Xiaozhuokui Village (小擢魁村), Tangfang Town (塘房镇), Zhenxiong County (镇雄县), is a master of Dangu Opera (端公戏), an ancient ritual drama. His skills were passed down through the family line.
In 1976, he began studying the art under the guidance of his grandfather Zhao Mingfang (赵明方) and his father Zhao Gaoyong (赵高勇), both renowned local performers.

The Zhao family’s tradition of Dangu Opera originated in Jiangxi (江西), evolved in Sichuan (四川), and by Zhao Zuxu’s generation, it had already been handed down for eight generations.

Ritual Forms of Dangu Opera (端公戏)

Dangu Opera combines drama with sacred rituals, often performed during important religious or community events. The main forms include:

• Celebrating Bodhisattva (庆菩萨) – A family-based ritual for household peace, usually lasting four days.

• Da Jiao (打窖) – A rain-praying ritual held during droughts, typically lasting three days.

• Repaying Vows (还钱 / 还愿) – A ritual of gratitude after prayers are answered, often for children’s health or family fortune, lasting one full day and night.

• Daoist Requiem (做斋) – Chanting scriptures to guide and bless the deceased, which can last for extended periods.

Props and Music

The props of Zhao Zuxu’s troupe are particularly distinctive, including:

• Zongzhen Hanging Scroll (总真案子) – hand-painted ritual paintings.

• Wooden Masks (木质脸谱) – colorful, carved face masks.

Musical accompaniment is dominated by percussion and wind instruments such as drums, gongs, cymbals, and ox-horn trumpets, creating a solemn and mysterious atmosphere.

? Preservation and Current Status of Dangu Opera (端公戏)

Dangu Opera is one of China’s oldest theatrical traditions, often called a “living fossil of Chinese drama.”
It has been performed in Zhaotong (昭通) for more than 400 years. In June 2021, it was officially listed as part of the Fifth Batch of National Intangible Cultural Heritage Representative Projects of China, affirming its cultural significance.

With the support of government and cultural institutions, Zhaotong City (昭通市) has launched several preservation initiatives, including inviting inheritors like Zhao Zuxu to lead workshops and training programs, ensuring that new generations can continue this endangered art form.

? Conclusion

Zhao Zuxu (赵祖旭) plays a vital role in carrying forward the legacy of Dangu Opera (端公戏) in Zhenxiong (镇雄).
While public information about his recent activities is limited, those who wish to learn more may contact the Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center of Zhaotong (昭通市) or Zhenxiong County (镇雄县).

This art form is not only a ritual performance but also a living link to China’s deep cultural memory—an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in traditional drama and folk heritage.