Why I Can't Seem to Enjoy Beijing Opera

Introduction

As a lover of traditional Chinese culture and arts, I have attended numerous performances of the Beijing Opera. Yet, no matter how many times I watch it, I can't seem to find any enjoyment in it. Every time, I try to suppress my yawns and remind myself that my ancestors enjoyed this art form. However, I can't help feeling disconnected from it. In this article, I want to explain why Beijing Opera is not for me.

The Language Barrier

One of the main reasons why I can't appreciate Beijing Opera is because of the language barrier. Unlike other forms of Chinese performing art, like dance or instrumental music, which communicate with the audience solely through movement and sound, Beijing Opera depends heavily on the actors' vocalizations. Although the music itself is often beautiful, I find myself getting lost in the words and unable to follow the storyline. Since I don't speak the archaic language used in Beijing Opera, I miss out on important plot details and character development. This ultimately prevents me from fully engaging with the performance.

The Cultural Gap

Another significant barrier that prevents me from enjoying Beijing Opera is the cultural gap between the art form and myself. While I appreciate the historical value of the work and its role in Chinese folklore, I can't seem to relate to its themes and characters. Many of the plots deal with specific moments in Chinese history or revolve around Confucian values, which may be challenging for a foreigner to fully comprehend. The stylization of the acting and the makeup is also quite different from Western theater, which can add further resistance to the performance.

The Inaccessibility

Lastly, I find Beijing Opera inaccessible due to the lack of effort made to adapt it to modern audiences. While the art form is still quite popular in China, it often fails to appeal to younger audiences and foreigners. In today's fast-paced world, people want something that is easily digestible and straightforward. Beijing Opera often does not meet this criterion. Furthermore, its emphasis on tradition and heritage can be off-putting for those who are seeking more contemporary forms of entertainment.

Conclusion

While my appreciation of Beijing Opera may never reach the same level as my love for other traditional Chinese arts, I think it is still important to acknowledge its cultural value. While it may not be for everyone, it is still an essential part of China's cultural heritage. However, the art form should strive to be more accessible to both younger and foreign audiences to ensure its longevity in the future.