Chinese Opera Gala Opens in Zhouzhuang
The Chinese Opera Gala opened in Zhouzhuang on September 23, showcasing 46 opera genres. The event continues through November.
The 2026 Chinese Opera Gala commenced in Zhouzhuang on September 23, presenting a program that features 46 distinct opera genres. Co-hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Jiangsu Provincial People's Government, the event runs through November.
The gala includes 57 excerpts and 10 full-length productions. Organizers aim to present China's opera traditions within a contemporary setting through new productions and audience engagement initiatives.
At the opening ceremony, 16 organizations were recognized for outstanding opera-related media projects. A report on China's Kunqu Opera and an AI-generated micro-drama were also introduced. Attendees experienced immersive opera performances and visited the newly opened Kunshan Opera Museum.
Key components of the gala include opening and closing ceremonies, performances highlighting opera techniques, and efforts to preserve endangered opera forms. Forums and presentations of new works are also scheduled. A tourism initiative connects opera with the province's cultural attractions.
Established in 2018, the Kunshan gala has become a significant gathering for China's living opera traditions. Previous editions have featured artists from all 348 national opera genres and attracted millions of viewers online and in person.