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.