Bi Yuting performs Kunqu Opera. [Photo/Jianghai Evening News]

30-year-old Bi Yuting, born in Nantong, has been dedicated to introducing ancient Kunqu Opera to young people.

Formerly known as Kunshan melodies, Kunqu Opera is one of the oldest traditional Chinese art forms, with a history dating back to about 600 years, and is performed in the melodic Suzhou dialect combining singing, dancing and acting.

"Kunqu Opera is a kind of art form that can express the lyricism, impressionistic style, symbolism, and poetic style of tradition Chinese aesthetics," said Bi. "The opera features strong artistic and cultural value."

Bi Yuting dresses up to perform Kunqu Opera. [Photo/Jianghai Evening News]

The opera performer also noted that the audience for the ancient art has been declining, creating challenges to its preservation and development. Therefore, she and her husband have worked together to promote Kunqu Opera on short video and social media platforms such as Douyin and WeChat.

Bi started learning Kunqu Opera from Liang Guyin, a nationally-respected actor and artist, when she was 10 years old. As a young actor at Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe, Bi usually spends her spare time promoting Kunqu Opera in Nantong.

In 2009, Bi returned Nantong to perform Kunqu Opera at the Gengsu Theater. In September last year, Bi and Wang Yani, a Mei'an guqin player, showcased the unique charm of the two ancient art forms at Wusan Art Museum in the city.

Bi said that she will use new media forms to help young people discover the charm of ancient Kunqu Opera in the future.