Prof. Pai Hsien-yung Kenneth, Wei Lun Professor of Humanities, was invited to present a lecture on 'New Aesthetics of Kunqu: Tradition in the Modern Era' on 18 April as one of the University's 50th Anniversary Distinguished Lectures. Drawing from his experience in kunqu production, he demonstrated how to make breakthroughs with due respect for tradition, and how to modernize a classical art form without abusing it.

Professor Pai showed two video clips of excerpts from 'Interrupted Dream' in The Peony Pavilion, one played by maestri Mei Lanfang and Yu Zhengfei in the 1950s, and the other, the modern 'young lovers' edition' by Shen Fengying and Yu Jiulin in the 21st century. He then guided the audience to appreciate how the modern rendition succeeded in bringing the traditional Chinese opera to new heights by reforming the set, costumes, props and choreography. The professor also cited the modern edition of The Story of the Jade Hairpin, produced by him, as an example of simplicity in stage aesthetics. By borrowing minimally from Chinese calligraphy, and putting Bodhisattva and Buddha icons on the backdrop, a sense of zen was created which enhanced the drama.

Nicknamed 'Kunqu Volunteer', Professor Pai has devoted himself to the promotion of kunqu for nearly 20 years since his retirement. Having presented university lectures on kunqu for no less than a hundred times, he still shared with his audience his passion for the art like it was the first time, inspiring everyone in attendance with the beauty of this UNESCO-crowned heritage.

For video clip of the lecture, please click here.