分类： entertainment

A captivating exhibition showcasing the timeless artistry of China’s Dehua white porcelain recently graced San Gabriel, California, drawing admiration from art enthusiasts and cultural aficionados alike. Titled *The Aesthetics of Harmony: Blanc de Chine, Porcelain from Dehua*, the event featured over 100 meticulously crafted porcelain pieces, each embodying centuries of tradition and innovation. Organized by Dehua county in Fujian province, the exhibition aimed to introduce American audiences to one of China’s most revered craft traditions, rooted in the ancient Maritime Silk Road.

In the serene mornings of Fuzhou, Jiangxi province, the air resonates with the melodious voice of Wan An’an, an 84-year-old national treasure and inheritor of Fuzhou Tea-picking Opera. This art form, deeply rooted in local folk traditions and performed in the Fuzhou dialect, is celebrated for its vibrant rhythm, expressive gestures, and the unique ‘tea flavor’ that narrates the lives of ordinary people.

Wan’s journey with the opera began at the tender age of 14 when she joined the Fuzhou Tea-picking Opera Troupe. Despite the lack of professional tutors and proper props, her dedication never wavered. Her career peaked in 1959 when she played Xiaolan in the revolutionary drama ‘Red Pine Forest,’ earning national acclaim and the honor of performing for state leaders.

Recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2011, Fuzhou Tea-picking Opera owes much of its preservation to Wan’s efforts. Even after retiring from the troupe in 2001, she continued to teach, emphasizing the importance of daily practice and audience interaction. Her teaching method blends rigorous training with creative imagination, using classic excerpts to teach the essential coordination of eyes, hands, body, and steps.

In recent years, Fuzhou’s cultural scene has been enriched by international exchanges, such as the Tang Xianzu International Theater Exchange Month, which has seen performances like an English adaptation of ‘The Peony Pavilion’ by a troupe from the University of Birmingham. Wan views these exchanges as a profound dialogue between Eastern and Western cultures, offering opportunities for Fuzhou Tea-picking Opera to learn and evolve.

Despite her age, Wan remains active in workshops and performances, advocating for the opera’s traditional charm while embracing modern elements. ‘Tea-picking Opera deserves a broader stage and a brighter future,’ she asserts, her passion undimmed by the years.

Lee Soon-jae, a towering figure in South Korean entertainment, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91, as confirmed by his agency. With a career that spanned over seven decades, Lee was affectionately known as the ‘national TV dad,’ a testament to his iconic portrayals of wise and endearing older characters. Among his most celebrated roles were the strict father in the 1991 soap opera *What on Earth is Love* and the lovable grandfather in the hit sitcom *High Kick!*, which aired from 2006 to 2012. His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the nation, including heartfelt messages from K-pop stars and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, who praised Lee for bringing ‘laughter, emotion, comfort, and courage’ to audiences. Lee remained active in his craft until recently, winning the grand prize at the 2023 KBS Drama Awards for his lead role in the comedy series *Dog Knows Everything*. Born in 1934 in Hoeryeong, now part of North Korea, Lee moved to Seoul at the age of four. After studying philosophy at Seoul National University, he found his calling in acting, inspired by Sir Laurence Olivier’s performance in *Hamlet*. Over his illustrious career, Lee appeared in approximately 140 TV shows and continued to perform on stage until October 2024, when illness forced him to withdraw from a production of *Waiting for Godot*. Beyond acting, Lee briefly ventured into politics, serving as a member of parliament from 1992 to 1996. His legacy endures not only in South Korea but also globally, as scenes from *High Kick!* have become viral memes on platforms like TikTok. Fellow actors, including Yoo Yeon-seok and Jeong Bo-seok, have hailed him as a mentor and a guiding force in their lives. Lee Soon-jae’s contributions to Korean entertainment have left an indelible mark, ensuring his place as a cultural icon for generations to come.

The Indian film industry has lost one of its most iconic figures, Dharmendra, who passed away at the age of 89 after a prolonged battle with illness. The veteran actor, celebrated for his contributions to Bollywood, breathed his last at his residence, surrounded by his family. Media reports indicate that an ambulance was seen departing from his home under tight security, as preparations for his final rites began at the Pawan Hans Cremation Centre. His wife, Hema Malini, and daughter, Esha Deol, were present to bid their final farewells. The news has sent shockwaves across the nation, with Bollywood director Karan Johar describing it as the ‘end of an era.’ Earlier this month, Dharmendra was hospitalized due to breathlessness, prompting visits from several prominent actors. Although he showed signs of recovery and was discharged for home treatment, false reports of his death circulated on November 12, causing confusion and distress. His family urged the media to respect their privacy and refrain from spreading misinformation. Tributes have poured in from across the industry, with many recalling his unparalleled legacy in Indian cinema.