Zhejiang Wuju Opera Troupe delivers performances in Thailand in January. [Photo/Zhejiang Wuju Opera Troupe]

The Zhejiang Wuju Opera Art Research Institute (Zhejiang Wuju Opera Troupe) has transcended its local origins in Jinhua, Zhejiang province, to become a beacon of Chinese cultural heritage on the global stage.

The troupe has captured the hearts of audiences across more than 60 countries and regions, presenting the rich tapestry of time-honored Wuju Opera to over 5 million viewers overseas.

During the recent Spring Festival, the troupe delivered performances in Thailand, earning praise from the audience and Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. 

By blending the singing styles of several types of Chinese operas and learning from various traditional performance forms like the face-changing from Sichuan Opera, the troupe has not only preserved the essence of Chinese operas but also made it relevant and engaging for international spectators.

From real-time translations of lyrics on an LED screen to personalized interactions with local viewers, the troupe ensures that each performance resonates with the cultural nuances of its host country.

The Zhejiang Wuju Opera Troupe made its first international appearance in 1993 when it was invited to perform in Tochigi city in Japan, a sister city of Jinhua. In 2009, China launched the "Happy Chinese New Year" cultural exchange activities, which gave the troupe the opportunity to enhance its appearance on the global stage.

As China's cultural diplomacy endeavors align with the Belt and Road Initiative, Wuju Opera's international expansion serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional Chinese arts.

By staying true to its roots while embracing innovation, the troupe conveys the spiritual value of Chinese culture in an artistic way, said Wang Yiping, secretary-general of the Zhejiang Wuju Opera Promotion Association.