An adaptedLiyuan operabased on Pu Songling’s short story “Cricket”premiered in Quanzhou, Fujian province, on the evening of February25.

Liyuan Opera, known as the “living embodimentof ancient operain Southern China”, originated in Quanzhou, a famous historical and cultural city in China. It inherited the script and performance style of classical opera, particularly those in Southern China during the SongandYuan dynasties.Its script, music, singing and performance are uniquein the history of Chinese opera.

In order to win over young audience, numerous attempts were made in stage design, lighting, sound, play-writing, directingand so on. With the compellingplotline, the delicate and elegant singing and music, and the thought-provoking ending, the performance received roaring applause.

The Liyuan Opera Heritage Centerin Fujian Province is constantly working to develop newformsof dramatic expression and present “immersive performance” of Liyuan opera across China. It has launchedaband ofLiyuan Opera called “ShangHao Ting”, which integrates ancient operawith modernelements such as rock and pop songs.