Kunqu, also known as Kunqu opera is one of the oldest form of Chinese operas. Originated in Kun Shan(a satellite town of Suzhou) from the late of Yuan dynasty about 600 years ago, Kunqu is recognized as the mother of a hundred Chinese operas such as Jingju (Peking Opera). And in May 18th, 2001, Kunqu was added to the Intangible World Culture Heritage List by UNESCO.
Kunqu combines speaking, singing, dancing and some acrobatic accompanied by Chinese traditional musical instruments including Dizi (a bamboo flute), Sheng (a reed pipe wind instrument), Xiao (a vertical bamboo flute), Suona (a kind of horn), Sanxian and Pipa. Kunqu actors speak and sing the old dialact in Kun Shan. The singing and dancing style of Kunqu is slow, lyric and delicate. And the dancer’s posture matches the dancing so perfect that I feel really wordless to have you imagine the real feeling when you enjoy Kunqu.
Suzhou Kunqu Museum is the place where you can not only know about Kunqu from history to culture but also enjoy by yourself. There is Kunqu performed every afternoon(Start at 2:00 PM ) on Sunday. It usually contains three opera highlights that lasts about 100 minutes. The ticket is 10 RMB and there is no need to book in advance. But I suggest you arrive early for a good seat place to enjoy.
Suzhou Kunqu Museum
No. 14 Zhong Zhang Jia Lane
Suzhou
6°