Peking Opera film, Madame Liang Hongyu Photo: VCG

Peking Opera film, Madame Liang Hongyu, a first-of-its-kind work produced using LED virtual production studio technology, is set to debut on Tuesday. The film marks a significant fusion of traditional performing arts and contemporary digital cinema.

Directed by Gao Mukun and Liu Xuezhong, with nationally acclaimed actors Dong Yuanyuan, Zhang Jianguo, and Tian Lei in lead roles, Madame Liang Hongyu is a Peking Opera masterpiece celebrating patriotism and national spirit. 

The narrative draws inspiration from the well-known tale of Liang Hongyu, a heroine from the Song Dynasty (960-1279) who valiantly quelled a rebellion to safeguard the people.

In recent years, traditional Chinese operas have increasingly embraced the film medium to reach a wider audience. Madame Liang Hongyu stands out as the first Peking Opera film crafted using state-of-the-art LED virtual studio technology, which utilizes LED display screens and virtual production software to create virtual backgrounds and environments for film and television productions. 

For this innovative attempt, the creators said at a post-screening event held in Shanghai on December 8 that they hope that the visual imagery aligns more closely with the contemporary aesthetic preferences of today's audiences. Through the narrative style of the film, they aim to convey the essence of Peking Opera stage performances, offering a richer cultural audiovisual experience for the younger generation. 

The goal of this film is to break traditional perceptions of Peking Opera among young people today, encouraging them to spontaneously explore the art form and actively experience its charm. 

Director Liu Xuezong, speaking at the post-screening event in Shanghai, emphasized the city's significance as a major hub for Chinese Opera, expressing optimism that this historical and technologically advanced Peking Opera film would captivate and resonate with the audience.

Lead actress Dong Yuanyuan, who portrays Liang, expressed her anticipation for the audience's validation and affection for her portrayal. 

Renowned figures in the Peking Opera community, including Shang Changrong, Zhang Xunpeng, Ji Zhenhua, and Chen Shaoyun, also attended the premiere, voicing their support and expectations for the film.

China's traditional cultural art forms have been employing new ways to resonate with younger generations. Previously, China's latest Yueju Opera production, New Dragon Gate Inn performed by Xiao Bai Hua, one of the most remarkable Yueju Opera troupes from East China's Zhejiang Province, has emerged as a phenomenal hit due to its innovative adaptation.

Similar to Peking Opera, Yueju Opera has a unique form of storytelling that combines classical singing, dancing and acting into one. And like many classical art forms, Yueju Opera has faced dwindling interest from younger audiences, until the groundbreaking New Dragon Gate Inn broke the spell. 

Different from previous Yueju Opera performances, New Dragon Gate Inn features an immersive experience. The audience can interact with the actors and fully engage in scenes, participating in the exploration and progression of the plot, creating a novel and interesting experience that resonates with those in attendance.