In recent days, the "Civilization in Chinese Culture" program of Changning District in 2024 has been making its way into numerous primary and secondary schools, bringing the beauty of traditional Chinese culture to young students. This initiative aims to instill cultural confidence among the youth through various activities such as learning Kunqu opera poetry and appreciating the elegance of Shanghai-style qipaos that have spanned a century.
At Weining Road Primary School, Zhao Jinyu, a professional promoter of Kunqu opera and successor of the Peng school's guimen dan (female role), engaged the students with her presentation titled "Endless Art, Endless Learning—Sowing the Seeds of Kunqu Opera." She demonstrated the art of Kunqu opera by performing He Zhizhang's poem "Song of the Willow" in the melodious Kunqu singing style. For many students, this was their first encounter with poetry being recited so melodiously, sparking a strong interest among them. During her presentation, Zhao Jinyu patiently taught the students various hand gestures used in Kunqu opera and led them in practicing dance movements while wearing flowing-sleeved costumes.
"During Kunqu opera performances, imagination plays a crucial role. Coupled with the colorful Kunqu costumes, it feels like watching a moving painting," Zhao Jinyu explained. "This water-sleeved costume also embodies two intangible cultural heritages of China—silk and embroidery—showcasing the wisdom and diligence of our laboring people." As she instructed the students in Kunqu opera techniques, Zhao also took the opportunity to introduce them to China's outstanding traditional culture. Her hope is that the students will earnestly study, inherit, and promote these cultural treasures, thereby enhancing their cultural confidence.
The introduction of traditional Chinese culture into schools through such activities not only enriches students' understanding of their cultural heritage but also encourages them to explore and appreciate the profoundness of their own traditions. Kunqu opera, with its intricate movements, poetic singing, and rich symbolism in costumes, serves as a gateway for students to connect with classical Chinese literature and aesthetics. Beyond mere performance, it becomes a vehicle for conveying values, emotions, and historical narratives.
Exploring Kunqu Opera and Shanghai-style Qipaos
Similarly, the appreciation of Shanghai-style qipaos as part of the "Century-old Hai Pai Qipao Beauty" segment of the program underscores the fusion of tradition and modernity. These qipaos, with their delicate silks and exquisite embroidery, not only represent a fashion statement but also embody the cultural heritage of Shanghai from a bygone era. Through workshops and presentations, students learn about the craftsmanship involved in creating these elegant garments and the stories they tell about societal changes and artistic evolution over time.
Furthermore, the program emphasizes the importance of cultural confidence among young people. By fostering a deep appreciation for their cultural roots, students develop a sense of pride and identity. They learn that traditional Chinese culture is not just a relic of the past but a vibrant source of inspiration that continues to influence contemporary society in various ways—from literature and arts to values and social norms.
The involvement of professionals and successors like Zhao Jinyu in these educational activities is pivotal. Their passion and expertise not only enrich the learning experience but also serve as role models for the students, encouraging them to pursue excellence in their cultural pursuits. Through interactive sessions and hands-on experiences, students not only acquire practical skills in performing arts or craftsmanship but also internalize the values of dedication, perseverance, and creativity inherent in traditional Chinese culture.
Moreover, the program's integration into school curricula ensures its sustainability and long-term impact. By embedding cultural education into the fabric of everyday learning, schools play a crucial role in nurturing a new generation of cultural ambassadors who are well-equipped to appreciate, preserve, and innovate upon their cultural heritage.
As the "Civilization in Chinese Culture" program continues to unfold across Changning District, its influence extends beyond the classroom walls. It fosters a community-wide dialogue about the importance of cultural preservation and revitalization in an increasingly globalized world. By celebrating the richness and diversity of traditional Chinese culture, the program not only strengthens cultural identity but also promotes mutual understanding and respect among different cultural communities.
This comprehensive approach to cultural education not only enriches students' academic experience but also nurtures their holistic development. By engaging in activities that blend artistic expression with historical context, students gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of various cultural elements. For instance, learning about the intricate patterns of Shanghai-style qipaos not only involves understanding fashion aesthetics but also delving into the social and economic dynamics of early 20th-century Shanghai.
Moreover, the program encourages students to explore their creativity and innovation within the framework of traditional Chinese culture. Whether through interpreting classical poems in Kunqu opera or designing modern adaptations of qipaos, students are inspired to integrate timeless traditions with contemporary ideas. This fusion not only revitalizes cultural practices but also promotes cultural sustainability by ensuring that traditions remain relevant and accessible to future generations.
Beyond its educational benefits, the "Civilization in Chinese Culture" program fosters a sense of community and belonging among students. Collaborative activities such as group performances, cultural exhibitions, and storytelling sessions create bonds among classmates and promote teamwork. Through these shared experiences, students learn the value of cultural diversity and respect for different perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and harmonious school environment.
The impact of such cultural initiatives extends beyond the school gates, influencing families and communities to actively participate in cultural preservation and promotion. Parents and guardians, inspired by their children's enthusiasm for traditional arts, may seek out opportunities to further explore and support cultural activities within their local communities. This grassroots involvement strengthens the program's reach and ensures its sustainability over time.
Furthermore, the integration of technology and digital platforms enhances the accessibility and engagement of cultural education. Virtual tours of historical sites, online exhibitions of traditional artworks, and interactive workshops conducted via video conferencing enable students to connect with cultural resources beyond their immediate surroundings. These digital tools not only supplement classroom learning but also empower students to explore cultural diversity on a global scale, fostering a sense of global citizenship and cultural exchange.
In conclusion, the "Civilization in Chinese Culture" initiative in Changning District exemplifies a proactive approach to cultural education that empowers young learners to embrace and celebrate their heritage. By immersing students in the richness of Kunqu opera, Shanghai-style qipaos, and other traditional arts, the program cultivates cultural confidence, creativity, and global awareness.
Through hands-on experiences, interdisciplinary learning, and community engagement, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to become custodians of their cultural legacy, ensuring its preservation and evolution in a rapidly changing world. As these initiatives continue to flourish, they pave the way for a future generation that values and champions the diversity and enduring beauty of traditional Chinese culture.
