Kunqu is a Chinese theatrical tradition combining sung passages, recitation and choreographed movement.
Historical setting and repertoire#
The UNESCO account places its development in Ming-period Kunshan, in the Suzhou region. It names The Peony Pavilion and The Palace of Eternal Life among the established repertoire.
Music and recognition#
Bamboo flute, drum, clappers, gongs and cymbals appear in the accompaniment described by UNESCO. The tradition entered the Representative List in 2008 after its 2001 proclamation.
Before attending#
Read the synopsis for the excerpt or production you are seeing. Ask whether the performance has subtitles, an introductory talk or a printed translation. No current troupe totals or audience figures are inferred from the heritage nomination.