Entertainment with ancient roots tunes into a modern following

The classical elegance and simplicity of Kunqu Opera is also highlighted by the stage set — one table and two chairs, leaving enough space for the audiences to use their imagination.

The singing emphasizes control of the voice and changes in rhythm, and the songs are accompanied by a bamboo flute, a small drum, wooden clappers, gongs and cymbals.

Of the 400 arias regularly sung in opera performances in the mid-20th century, only a few dozen continue to be performed.

As well as in theaters, the ancient art form has been staged outdoors, in places like the classical gardens of Suzhou, Jiangsu province, where the art form was first born.

Nowadays, Kunqu Opera performances also employ modern technology, such as multimedia effects.