Opera steps into the classroom
In recent months, the auditorium of Hong Wen School has been filled with a sound rarely heard in Singapore — the resonant tones of Puxian opera. The moment the melodies began, many were transported back to childhood memories of temple festivals, where Puxian opera once played a central role.
This was no ordinary school performance. The students of Hong Wen took part in the 13th Lion City Youth Chinese Opera Showcase, organised by the Traditional Arts Centre (Singapore). The showcase, held on August 26 at the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, celebrated young people’s passion for traditional performing arts.
The highlight this year? Puxian opera graced the local stage for the very first time, with students performing “Children’s Voices, Puxian Heritage” and “Shouzhou Rescues the Emperor.”
Originating from Putian in Fujian province, Puxian opera is regarded as the oldest surviving form of Chinese opera — often called a “living fossil.” Its singing style is powerful yet lyrical, with a unique rhythm to its gestures. Among its most distinctive features is the delicate “walking without moving the skirt” step, performed by female characters.
From Zero to Stage: Students Win Over Their Teacher
The guiding force behind this debut was 48-year-old instructor Chen Xiaofang, a veteran performer who once spent nine years with the Putian County No. 1 Puxian Opera Troupe in Fujian. A classically trained artist, Chen rose to prominence through her role as Zhang Ruyue, the refined “young mistress,” in Spring Flowers, Autumn Moon, a production she co-starred in with Wu Qinghua — now the director of the Fujian Puxian Opera Theatre. That performance remains a highlight for opera fans, and Zhang Ruyue is still remembered as one of Chen’s signature roles.
Having moved to Singapore 23 years ago, Chen has since built a career outside the stage but never strayed far from her cultural roots. A passionate advocate for Hinghwa heritage, she continues to sing with the Singapore Shiyin BaYue (Ten Sounds Eight Joys) ensemble, where she regularly takes centre stage at cultural events.
When invited to train the Hong Wen students in Puxian opera, Chen agreed without hesitation. She admits she was moved by the children’s dedication:
“At first, the students couldn’t understand a word of the Hinghwa dialect,” Chen recalled with a smile. “But after just eight lessons, not only could they memorise their lines, they were able to capture the flavour of the singing style. Their progress exceeded my expectations.”
Looking ahead, Chen hopes more young people will be inspired to learn, ensuring that Puxian opera continues to find its voice in Singapore and beyond.
Under Chen’s guidance, 29 Hong Wen students learned to sing and perform in Hinghwa within just eight lessons — a milestone for both the school and the art form.